Biotech, top universities, finance — knowledge economy capital. Here's how QA / Test Engineers in Boston get paid in 2026.
How pay scales with career stage in the Boston metro market.
| Experience | Median 2026 | 25th % | 75th % |
|---|---|---|---|
| Entry (0–1 yr) | $95,900 | $72,900 | $124,800 |
| Junior (2–4 yrs) | $119,200 | $90,600 | $155,100 |
| Mid-Level (5–9 yrs) | $137,100 | $104,200 | $178,300 |
| Senior (10–14 yrs) | $164,500 | $125,000 | $213,900 |
| Veteran (15+ yrs) | $186,400 | $141,700 | $242,400 |
Highest-paying metros for QA / Test Engineers — useful if you're weighing a relocation.
Top occupations by median pay across the Boston metro economy.
The average QA / Test Engineer salary in the Boston metro is $137,100 per year as of 2026, with a typical range of $104,200 to $178,300 (25th–75th percentile). Top earners (90th percentile) make $226,300 or more.
Yes — Boston pays +2% relative to the Massachusetts state median for QA / Test Engineers. Major metros typically concentrate higher-paying employers and command a wage premium over rural and small-city areas in the same state.
Boston vs. national: +33%. That puts Boston among the stronger US markets for QA / Test Engineers — though cost of living in Boston is also typically elevated.
In Boston, the median QA / Test Engineer salary of $137,100 typically corresponds to 5–9 years of experience (mid-level). Entry-level QA / Test Engineers in Boston start around $95,900, while seniors (10+ years) reach $164,500 or more.
Metro medians are useful benchmarks — but your exact number depends on your experience, education, and the specific employer. Run the free calculator for a personalized read.
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