How QA / Test Engineers in New York get paid in 2026 — median, range, experience tiers, metro breakdown, and a comparison against national pay.
Pay tiers reflect typical New York compensation across career stages. Specialized employers may pay above these ranges.
| Experience | Median 2026 | 25th % | 75th % |
|---|---|---|---|
| Entry (0–1 yr) | $90,000 | $68,400 | $117,100 |
| Junior (2–4 yrs) | $111,900 | $85,000 | $145,500 |
| Mid-Level (5–9 yrs) | $128,700 | $97,800 | $167,300 |
| Senior (10–14 yrs) | $154,400 | $117,300 | $200,700 |
| Veteran (15+ yrs) | $175,000 | $133,000 | $227,500 |
Pay varies sharply within New York. Major metros usually outpay state-wide averages.
| Metro | Median | 25th % | 75th % | vs New York |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| New York City | $141,100 | $107,200 | $183,400 | +10% |
Top occupations by median pay in New York — useful context if you're weighing a career switch.
→ See full ranking of top 25 highest-paying jobs in New York
If you'd consider relocating, here's how regional and comparable markets pay for the same job.
The average QA / Test Engineer salary in New York is $128,700 per year as of 2026, based on projections from BLS Occupational Employment Statistics. The 25th percentile sits at $97,800 and the 75th at $167,300.
Pay-wise, New York sits +25% 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 New York earn around $154,400 per year on average. Veterans with 15+ years can reach $175,000 or more, especially at the 75th percentile and above.
Among all 51 jurisdictions (50 states + DC), New York ranks 6th 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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