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.

QA Engineer Salary in San Francisco-Oakland-Berkeley CA (2026)

Shift to automated testing (SDET) mandatory for top pay.

Median Salary: $175,013

Range: $113K – $299K

CoL Tier: Very High · 3-Year Trend: +4.2% · Source: Built In (calculated)

Avg Total Comp

$206,150

Experience Level

QA Manager median $131k; SDET specialists command 20-30% premium.

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