Software Quality Assurance Tester Salary in San Diego, CA
2024 BLS OEWS Data · Technology · COL Index: 160.2
$109,590
Median Salary
$115,180
Mean Salary
$68,408
COL-Adjusted
2,260
Employment
Salary Distribution
Percentile Breakdown
| Percentile | Salary | COL-Adjusted |
|---|---|---|
| 10th Percentile (Entry Level) | $64,000 | $39,950 |
| 25th Percentile | $85,610 | $53,439 |
| 50th Percentile (Median) | $109,590 | $68,408 |
| 75th Percentile | $137,110 | $85,587 |
| 90th Percentile (Top Earners) | $159,780 | $99,738 |
What Drives the Range
The $95,780 spread between the 10th and 90th percentiles for Software Quality Assurance Tester positions in San Diego, CA reflects several factors. Entry-level professionals and those in smaller organizations typically fall in the lower quartiles, while senior specialists, those with in-demand certifications, and employees at large enterprises command salaries in the upper percentiles.
San Diego, CA's cost-of-living index of 160.2 means that a $109,590 median salary here has the same purchasing power as $68,408 in an average-cost U.S. city. Despite the higher cost of living, this metro area offers a deep talent pool and typically higher total compensation when including equity and bonuses.