QA Engineer Salary in Washington
The median qa engineer salary in Washington is $114,300 per year, which is 27.0% above the national median of $90,000.
QA Engineer Salary Overview in Washington (2026)
Washington ranks #5 out of 50 states for qa engineer compensation. This places Washington in the top tier nationally, making it one of the best states for qa engineers seeking high pay. At $114,300 per year, qa engineers in Washington earn $24,300 more than the national median of $90,000.
It's worth noting that Washington's cost of living is 115% of the national average, which reduces the real purchasing power of the $114,300 salary. After adjusting for cost of living, the effective salary is closer to $99,391.
The salary spread in Washington is significant: qa engineers at the 10th percentile earn $69,850, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $180,340 — a $110,490 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in Washington for this role is Bellevue, where the median reaches $147,600.
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 Washington and beyond.
QA Engineer Salary in Washington by Experience
In Washington, an entry-level qa engineer earns around $73,660, while experienced professionals earn up to $171,450 per year. The cost of living index in Washington is 115% of the national average.
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View Offers You Qualify For →Salary Percentiles in Washington
| Percentile | WA Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $69,850 |
| 25th Percentile | $91,440 |
| Median (50th) | $114,300 |
| 75th Percentile | $149,860 |
| 90th Percentile | $180,340 |
QA Engineer Salary by City in Washington
The largest employment areas for qa engineers in Washington include Seattle, Spokane, Tacoma, and Bellevue. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.
How to Become a QA Engineer in Washington
Education
Most qa engineer positions require a bachelor's degree. Washington has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Washington
Nationally, qa engineer employment is projected to grow 15% over the next decade (much faster than average). Washington'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 $57,150 over your career trajectory.
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