How QA / Test Engineers in Maryland get paid in 2026 — median, range, experience tiers, metro breakdown, and a comparison against national pay.
Pay tiers reflect typical Maryland compensation across career stages. Specialized employers may pay above these ranges.
| Experience | Median 2026 | 25th % | 75th % |
|---|---|---|---|
| Entry (0–1 yr) | $86,500 | $65,700 | $112,400 |
| Junior (2–4 yrs) | $107,500 | $81,600 | $139,700 |
| Mid-Level (5–9 yrs) | $123,600 | $93,900 | $160,600 |
| Senior (10–14 yrs) | $148,300 | $112,600 | $192,700 |
| Veteran (15+ yrs) | $168,000 | $127,700 | $218,400 |
Top occupations by median pay in Maryland — useful context if you're weighing a career switch.
→ See full ranking of top 25 highest-paying jobs in Maryland
If you'd consider relocating, here's how regional and comparable markets pay for the same job.
The average QA / Test Engineer salary in Maryland is $123,600 per year as of 2026, based on projections from BLS Occupational Employment Statistics. The 25th percentile sits at $93,900 and the 75th at $160,600.
Pay-wise, Maryland sits +20% above the national QA / Test Engineer median ($103,000). That makes it one of the stronger markets — though cost of living should always be factored in alongside raw salary.
Senior QA / Test Engineers (10–14 years of experience) in Maryland earn around $148,300 per year on average. Veterans with 15+ years can reach $168,000 or more, especially at the 75th percentile and above.
Among all 51 jurisdictions (50 states + DC), Maryland ranks 8th for QA / Test Engineer pay. The highest-paying state pays around $144,100 on average.
The median is a benchmark, not a verdict. Your exact market value depends on your experience and education — plus your specific employer's pay band. Run the free calculator for a personalized number.
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