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These figures are estimated from the national median for this role using a verified geographic cost-of-living multiplier for this metro area. Direct survey data is used where available.
Washington-Arlington-Alexandria DC-VA-MD-WV Market Report
Fall 2026 UpdateUpdated October 3, 2026

QA Engineer Salary in Washington-Arlington-Alexandria DC-VA-MD-WV (Fall 2026)

Shift to automated testing (SDET) mandatory for top pay. In Washington-Arlington-Alexandria DC-VA-MD-WV, the median annual base compensation is $157,907, representing a +20% adjustment compared to the national average.

Median Base
$157,907
Market Range (P10–P90)
$102K – $270K
3-Year Trajectory
+4.2%

QA Engineer Salary Distribution in Washington-Arlington-Alexandria DC-VA-MD-WV

10th Percentile
$102,000
Entry / Junior
25th Percentile
$127,158
Mid-Level
50th (Median)
$157,907
Market Midpoint
90th Percentile
$270,000
Senior / Staff

Regional Market Insights & Cost of Living

The cost of living in Washington-Arlington-Alexandria DC-VA-MD-WV is rated as High. When evaluating offers in this market, total purchasing power reflects local housing and tax obligations. Compared to national baseline levels ($$131,589), candidates in Washington-Arlington-Alexandria DC-VA-MD-WVcommand a 20% premium based on local demand drivers.

CoL Tier: HighNational Median: $131,589Data Sources: Built In (calculated)
Avg Total Comp
$186,000
Experience Level
QA Manager median $131k; SDET specialists command 20-30% premium.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the average QA Engineer salary in Washington-Arlington-Alexandria DC-VA-MD-WV?
In Washington-Arlington-Alexandria DC-VA-MD-WV, the median base salary for a QA Engineer is $157,907 per year. Salaries typically range from $102K for entry-to-mid levels up to $270K for senior practitioners.
How does Washington-Arlington-Alexandria DC-VA-MD-WV compensation compare to the national average?
QA Engineer pay in Washington-Arlington-Alexandria DC-VA-MD-WV is 20% above the national median ($131,589 national median). Cost of living for this market is classified as High.
What is the 3-year salary growth trend for QA Engineers in this market?
Compensation for QA Engineers has seen a 4.2% change over the past 3 years. Shift to automated testing (SDET) mandatory for top pay.
What data sources are used for this Washington-Arlington-Alexandria DC-VA-MD-WV benchmark?
This benchmark is compiled using Built In (calculated), with geographic adjustments based on Verified Cost of Living Indexes and local market surveys.

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