QA Engineer Salary in North Carolina
The median qa engineer salary in North Carolina is $86,400 per year, which is 4% below the national median of $90,000.
QA Engineer Salary Overview in North Carolina (2026)
North Carolina ranks #26 out of 50 states for qa engineer compensation. QA Engineer salaries in North Carolina are below the national median, though the lower cost of living can offset the difference. At $86,400 per year, qa engineers in North Carolina earn $3,600 less than the national median of $90,000.
A key advantage of working in North Carolina is its below-average cost of living (92% of the national index). This means the $86,400 salary has the purchasing power of roughly $93,913 in an average-cost area.
The salary spread in North Carolina is significant: qa engineers at the 10th percentile earn $52,800, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $136,320 — a $83,520 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in North Carolina for this role is Charlotte, where the median reaches $91,800.
Nationally, qa engineer employment is projected to grow 15% over the next decade (much faster than average). This strong growth suggests increasing demand and competitive salaries in North Carolina and beyond.
QA Engineer Salary in North Carolina by Experience
In North Carolina, an entry-level qa engineer earns around $55,680, while experienced professionals earn up to $129,600 per year. The cost of living index in North Carolina is 92% of the national average.
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See Investment Options →Salary Percentiles in North Carolina
| Percentile | NC Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $52,800 |
| 25th Percentile | $69,120 |
| Median (50th) | $86,400 |
| 75th Percentile | $113,280 |
| 90th Percentile | $136,320 |
QA Engineer Salary by City in North Carolina
The largest employment areas for qa engineers in North Carolina include Charlotte, Raleigh, Durham, and Greensboro. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.
How to Become a QA Engineer in North Carolina
Education
Most qa engineer positions require a bachelor's degree. North Carolina has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in North Carolina
Nationally, qa engineer employment is projected to grow 15% over the next decade (much faster than average). North Carolina's demand may vary based on local industry trends.
Negotiate Your Way to Senior Pay
Data shows QA Engineers who negotiate earn 7–15% more. A single negotiation could add $43,200 over your career trajectory.
Get Negotiation Scripts — $197 →Open to QA Engineer Roles in North Carolina?
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