Biotech, defense, military, perfect weather premium. Here's how QA / Test Engineers in San Diego get paid in 2026.
How pay scales with career stage in the San Diego metro market.
| Experience | Median 2026 | 25th % | 75th % |
|---|---|---|---|
| Entry (0–1 yr) | $95,100 | $72,300 | $123,600 |
| Junior (2–4 yrs) | $118,200 | $89,800 | $153,700 |
| Mid-Level (5–9 yrs) | $135,900 | $103,300 | $176,700 |
| Senior (10–14 yrs) | $163,000 | $123,900 | $212,000 |
| Veteran (15+ yrs) | $184,800 | $140,400 | $240,300 |
Highest-paying metros for QA / Test Engineers — useful if you're weighing a relocation.
Top occupations by median pay across the San Diego metro economy.
The average QA / Test Engineer salary in the San Diego metro is $135,900 per year as of 2026, with a typical range of $103,300 to $176,700 (25th–75th percentile). Top earners (90th percentile) make $224,200 or more.
Yes — San Diego pays -6% relative to the California 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.
San Diego vs. national: +32%. That puts San Diego among the stronger US markets for QA / Test Engineers — though cost of living in San Diego is also typically elevated.
In San Diego, the median QA / Test Engineer salary of $135,900 typically corresponds to 5–9 years of experience (mid-level). Entry-level QA / Test Engineers in San Diego start around $95,100, while seniors (10+ years) reach $163,000 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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