Energy capital, NASA, world-class medical center. Here's how QA / Test Engineers in Houston get paid in 2026.
How pay scales with career stage in the Houston metro market.
| Experience | Median 2026 | 25th % | 75th % |
|---|---|---|---|
| Entry (0–1 yr) | $76,700 | $58,300 | $99,600 |
| Junior (2–4 yrs) | $95,300 | $72,400 | $123,800 |
| Mid-Level (5–9 yrs) | $109,600 | $83,300 | $142,400 |
| Senior (10–14 yrs) | $131,500 | $99,900 | $170,800 |
| Veteran (15+ yrs) | $149,000 | $113,200 | $193,600 |
Highest-paying metros for QA / Test Engineers — useful if you're weighing a relocation.
Top occupations by median pay across the Houston metro economy.
The average QA / Test Engineer salary in the Houston metro is $109,600 per year as of 2026, with a typical range of $83,300 to $142,400 (25th–75th percentile). Top earners (90th percentile) make $180,800 or more.
Yes — Houston pays -1% relative to the Texas 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.
Houston vs. national: +6%. Houston pays roughly in line with the national average for QA / Test Engineers. Whether that's a 'good' deal depends on local cost of living and your career stage.
In Houston, the median QA / Test Engineer salary of $109,600 typically corresponds to 5–9 years of experience (mid-level). Entry-level QA / Test Engineers in Houston start around $76,700, while seniors (10+ years) reach $131,500 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.
Get my personal salary report →