How QA / Test Engineers in Texas get paid in 2026 — median, range, experience tiers, metro breakdown, and a comparison against national pay.
Pay tiers reflect typical Texas compensation across career stages. Specialized employers may pay above these ranges.
| Experience | Median 2026 | 25th % | 75th % |
|---|---|---|---|
| Entry (0–1 yr) | $77,800 | $59,100 | $101,200 |
| Junior (2–4 yrs) | $96,700 | $73,500 | $125,800 |
| Mid-Level (5–9 yrs) | $111,200 | $84,500 | $144,600 |
| Senior (10–14 yrs) | $133,400 | $101,400 | $173,500 |
| Veteran (15+ yrs) | $151,200 | $114,900 | $196,600 |
Pay varies sharply within Texas. Major metros usually outpay state-wide averages.
| Metro | Median | 25th % | 75th % | vs Texas |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Austin | $116,100 | $88,300 | $151,000 | +4% |
| Dallas–Fort Worth | $112,800 | $85,800 | $146,700 | +1% |
| Houston | $109,600 | $83,300 | $142,400 | -1% |
Top occupations by median pay in Texas — useful context if you're weighing a career switch.
If you'd consider relocating, here's how regional and comparable markets pay for the same job.
The average QA / Test Engineer salary in Texas is $111,200 per year as of 2026, based on projections from BLS Occupational Employment Statistics. The 25th percentile sits at $84,500 and the 75th at $144,600.
Pay-wise, Texas sits +8% 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 Texas earn around $133,400 per year on average. Veterans with 15+ years can reach $151,200 or more, especially at the 75th percentile and above.
Among all 51 jurisdictions (50 states + DC), Texas ranks 16th 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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