There are many factors that can affect the average software engineering salary. Some of the most significant factors include:

Geographic location: Salaries for software engineers can vary significantly based on the location where they work. For example, software engineers working in the United States or Western Europe tend to earn higher salaries compared to those working in Asia, Africa, or Latin America.

Years of experience: Generally, software engineers with more years of experience tend to earn higher salaries compared to those with less experience.

Industry: Salaries for software engineers can also vary based on the industry in which they work. For example, software engineers working in the finance or technology industries may earn more compared to those in the healthcare or education industries.

Company size: Larger companies may offer higher salaries compared to smaller ones.

Education and qualifications: Software engineers with higher levels of education or specialized qualifications such as a master's degree or a certification in a particular technology may command higher salaries.

In-demand skills: Software engineers with in-demand skills such as machine learning, artificial intelligence, or cloud computing may earn higher salaries compared to those without these skills.

Cost of living: The cost of living in a particular location can have a significant impact on the actual value of a software engineer's salary.

It's important to note that these factors are not exhaustive, and salaries can vary widely depending on the individual's specific circumstances. Additionally, salaries for software engineers can change over time due to market demand, technological advancements, and economic conditions.