Software Quality Assurance Tester Salary in San Jose, CA
2024 BLS OEWS Data · Technology · COL Index: 195.8
$165,700
Median Salary
$165,780
Mean Salary
$84,627
COL-Adjusted
7,590
Employment
Salary Distribution
Percentile Breakdown
| Percentile | Salary | COL-Adjusted |
|---|---|---|
| 10th Percentile (Entry Level) | $82,150 | $41,956 |
| 25th Percentile | $111,650 | $57,022 |
| 50th Percentile (Median) | $165,700 | $84,627 |
| 75th Percentile | $194,090 | $99,127 |
| 90th Percentile (Top Earners) | $223,560 | $114,178 |
What Drives the Range
The $141,410 spread between the 10th and 90th percentiles for Software Quality Assurance Tester positions in San Jose, 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 Jose, CA's cost-of-living index of 195.8 means that a $165,700 median salary here has the same purchasing power as $84,627 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.