Software Quality Assurance Analysts and Testers in California
2026 Salary & Job Market Data
Quick Snapshot
| Metric | California | National | Insight |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $127,010 | $102,610 | +23.8% vs US |
| State Rank | #2 of 50 states | Top 10 state | |
| Employment | 31,530 jobs | 199,800 jobs | 15.8% of US jobs |
| Job Concentration (LQ) | — | 1.00 | Average |
Full Salary Distribution in California
| Percentile | Annual | Hourly |
|---|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $63,460 | $30.51 |
| 25th Percentile | $86,490 | $41.58 |
| Median | $127,010 | $61.06 |
| 75th Percentile | $164,520 | $79.10 |
| 90th Percentile | $197,400 | $94.90 |
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the job outlook for Software Quality Assurance Analysts and Testers in California in 2026?
With a median salary of $127,010 in California and a 2021–2024 salary trend of +20.7%, software quality assurance analysts and testers are still in strong and growing demand.
How can software quality assurance analysts and testers increase their salary in California?
Software Quality Assurance Analysts and Testers in California can increase earnings by targeting higher-paying industries which tend to offer compensation well above the state median. Additionally, relocating to a higher-paying state could offer a significant income boost: California currently ranks #2 out of 50 states for this occupation. Pursuing advanced credentials, specializations, or roles with greater responsibility are proven ways to move toward the 75th or 90th percentile of earners.
Which industries pay the most for Software Quality Assurance Analysts and Testers in California?
State-level industry data is limited for this occupation. Nationally, the top-paying industries are:
| Industry | Annual Median |
|---|---|
| General Merchandise Retailers | $170,870 |
| General Merchandise Retailers | $170,870 |
| Motor Vehicle Manufacturing | $168,130 |
How are Software Quality Assurance Analysts and Testers paid in California compared to the national average?
The median salary for Software Quality Assurance Analysts and Testers in California is $127,010, which is 23.8% above the national median of $102,610.