QA Engineer Salary in South Dakota
The median qa engineer salary in South Dakota is $74,700 per year, which is 17% below the national median of $90,000.
QA Engineer Salary Overview in South Dakota (2026)
South Dakota ranks #45 out of 50 states for qa engineer compensation. QA Engineer salaries in South Dakota are below the national median, though the lower cost of living can offset the difference. At $74,700 per year, qa engineers in South Dakota earn $15,300 less than the national median of $90,000.
A key advantage of working in South Dakota is its below-average cost of living (88% of the national index). This means the $74,700 salary has the purchasing power of roughly $84,886 in an average-cost area.
The salary spread in South Dakota is significant: qa engineers at the 10th percentile earn $45,650, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $117,860 — a $72,210 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in South Dakota for this role is Sioux Falls, where the median reaches $78,300.
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 South Dakota and beyond.
QA Engineer Salary in South Dakota by Experience
In South Dakota, an entry-level qa engineer earns around $48,140, while experienced professionals earn up to $112,050 per year. The cost of living index in South Dakota is 88% of the national average.
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See Investment Options →Salary Percentiles in South Dakota
| Percentile | SD Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $45,650 |
| 25th Percentile | $59,760 |
| Median (50th) | $74,700 |
| 75th Percentile | $97,940 |
| 90th Percentile | $117,860 |
QA Engineer Salary by City in South Dakota
The largest employment areas for qa engineers in South Dakota include Sioux Falls, Rapid City, Aberdeen, and Brookings. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.
How to Become a QA Engineer in South Dakota
Education
Most qa engineer positions require a bachelor's degree. South Dakota has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in South Dakota
Nationally, qa engineer employment is projected to grow 15% over the next decade (much faster than average). South Dakota'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 $37,350 over your career trajectory.
Get Negotiation Scripts — $197 →Open to QA Engineer Roles in South Dakota?
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