Software Quality Assurance Analysts and Testers Salary in Los Angeles, CA

BLS Occupational Employment & Wage Statistics • May 2025 • Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim, CA

Median annual salary $106,400 +3.7% vs national
Median hourly $51.16
10th percentile $48,450
90th percentile $163,870
Employed locally 7,560
National median $102,610

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Software Quality Assurance Analysts and Testers
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    In Los Angeles, CA, a Software Quality Assurance Analyst or Tester typically earns a median annual salary of $106,400, which is above the national median of $102,610 for this occupation. This reflects a competitive job market where skilled professionals are rewarded with higher wages compared to the broader U.S. landscape. The local household income in Los Angeles stands at an area median of $93,525, indicating that individuals employed as Software Quality Assurance Analysts and Testers generally earn significantly more than the average household. This disparity highlights the specialized nature of the role and its demand within the tech-centric economy of Los Angeles.

    Entry-level Software Quality Assurance Analysts and Testers in Los Angeles start with an annual salary around the 10th percentile mark, which is approximately $48,450. As professionals gain experience, their earnings can rise substantially, reaching up to the 75th percentile at about $134,010 annually for more seasoned workers. The highest earners within this field may see salaries approaching the 90th percentile, earning as much as $163,870 per year. This substantial variance in salary is driven by factors such as years of experience, level of education, specific skills in demand (such as familiarity with certain testing methodologies or programming languages), and the complexity of projects handled. As professionals advance their careers and take on more responsibilities, the compensation reflects the increased value they bring to their organizations.

    Salary percentile breakdown

    10th
    $48,450
    25th
    $76,130
    50th (median)
    $106,400
    75th
    $134,010
    90th
    $163,870

    Los Angeles economic context

    Unemployment rate 5.40% 2024 annual avg • BLS LAUS
    Median household income $93,525 2023 • Census ACS
    Software Quality Assurance Analysts and Testers salary vs area income 114% Median Software Quality Assurance Analysts and Testers salary is 14% above the area median household income

    Frequently asked questions

    How much do Software Quality Assurance Analysts and Testers make per hour in Los Angeles?

    The median hourly wage for Software Quality Assurance Analysts and Testers in Los Angeles, CA is $51.16, based on BLS OEWS 2025 data. Top earners (90th percentile) make $82.16 or more per hour.

    Is Los Angeles above or below average for Software Quality Assurance Analysts and Testers salaries?

    The median Software Quality Assurance Analysts and Testers salary in Los Angeles, CA is 3.7% above the national median of $102,610. The national figure is from BLS OEWS 2025 data covering all US metropolitan areas.

    What is the entry-level salary for Software Quality Assurance Analysts and Testers in Los Angeles?

    Entry-level Software Quality Assurance Analysts and Testers (10th percentile) earn around $48,450 per year in Los Angeles, CA. The 25th percentile — typically workers with 1–3 years of experience — earn approximately $76,130.