Software Quality Assurance Analysts and Testers Salary 2025: $104,300 Median, 10% Growth
Software Quality Assurance Analysts and Testers earn a median $104,300 per year, according to the latest BLS data. The mean wage hits $111,490, or roughly $50 an hour. Most fall between $61,440 (10th percentile) and $167,010 (90th percentile). That range stretches from entry-level to senior roles, and location plays a big role too.
How much Software Quality Assurance Analysts and Testers earn
Nationally, the occupation employs 186,740 workers. The median—the midpoint where half earn more and half earn less—is $104,300. Top earners in the 90th percentile pull in $167,010, while new or lower-paid testers start around $61,440.
Compensation varies by industry and experience. Tech companies, finance, and software publishing tend to pay above the median. Contract and consulting roles may offer higher hourly rates but less stability.
Pay by state
Where you work dramatically affects your paycheck. Five states pay above $120,000 on average: California ($128,740), Washington ($128,480), Colorado ($123,690), Massachusetts ($122,210), and Virginia ($121,590). At the other end, three states average under $70,000: South Dakota ($68,120), Louisiana ($66,810), and West Virginia ($62,300). That's more than a 2x gap between the highest and lowest states.
How to become Software Quality Assurance Analysts and Tester
Most QA analysts and testers hold a bachelor's degree in computer science, information systems, or a related field. Some enter with an associate degree plus experience. Certifications like ISTQB Certified Tester or Certified Software Tester (CSTE) can boost your resume.
The typical path: get a degree, learn software testing tools (Selenium, JIRA, Postman), and practice writing test cases. Entry-level roles often start as manual testers, then move to automation. Many gain experience through internships or QA support positions.
- Earn a bachelor's degree in computer science, IT, or a related discipline.
- Learn testing tools: Selenium for automation, JIRA for bug tracking, SQL for databases.
- Consider certification: ISTQB Foundation Level is widely recognized.
- Apply for entry-level QA tester or analyst roles to build experience.
Job outlook
The BLS projects 10% growth from 2024 to 2034, much faster than the average for all occupations. That translates to about 14,000 openings each year, mostly from workers leaving the field or retiring. Demand is driven by companies needing to ensure software quality across more apps, devices, and platforms.
Frequently asked questions
Is $104,300 the average salary for QA testers?
It's the median. The mean (average) is $111,490. Half earn more than $104,300, half earn less.
What education do I need to become a QA analyst?
Most roles require a bachelor's degree in computer science or a related field. Some employers accept an associate degree plus experience.
Is QA testing a growing career?
Yes. BLS projects 10% growth from 2024 to 2034, adding about 14,000 openings per year. That's much faster than average.
Which state pays QA testers the most?
California leads with an average of $128,740, followed by Washington ($128,480) and Colorado ($123,690).
Can I become a QA tester without a degree?
It's possible but harder. Many employers require a bachelor's. Self-study, bootcamps, and certifications can help, but expect strong competition for jobs without a degree.
Salary figures are U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates (OEWS / Employment Projections). For informational purposes only; not career or financial advice. See the full Software Quality Assurance Analysts and Testers data.