How much does a software tester make?
a year · about $50 an hour
A typical software tester in the United States makes $104,300 a year, about $50 an hour, about 2× a typical US worker (median, May 2025, US Bureau of Labor Statistics).
What do they do?
They plan tests for a new app, then click through screens or run automated checks to see what breaks. They record bugs, retest fixes, and tell developers what works poorly or feels confusing.
Did you know? NASA's Mars Climate Orbiter got too close to Mars after ground and onboard software used different measurement units.
Is that a lot?
Compared with jobs you knowIf 100 people had this job
Most earn between $61,440 and $167,010How do you become one?
In the U.S., many study computer science, IT, or a related subject in college; a bachelor's degree is typical. They build programming and troubleshooting skills, and may use a registered apprenticeship or industry certification to strengthen their preparation.
School needed: Usually a bachelor's degree
Good for people who like figuring things out and keeping things organized
Why does pay differ?
In the United States, testers with more experience, sought-after skills like automated testing, or useful certifications may earn more. Pay also differs by location and employer—such as software, finance, or manufacturing—and overtime or shift premiums can add to earnings.
Where does it pay most?
Highest in California ($128,740), lowest in Oklahoma ($77,700).
See every state
Top 5 and bottom 3 states, typical (median) yearly pay.
Jobs like this
Data table and sources
| Lower earner (10th from bottom) | Typical person (median) | Higher earner (10th from top) | People in this job |
|---|---|---|---|
| $61,440 | $104,300 | $167,010 | about 187,000 |
| State | Typical person (median) | People in this job |
|---|---|---|
| California | $128,740 | about 28,000 |
| Washington | $128,480 | about 8,000 |
| Colorado | $123,690 | about 5,000 |
| Massachusetts | $122,210 | about 7,000 |
| Virginia | $121,590 | about 10,000 |
Official definition: Develop and execute software tests to identify software problems and their causes. Test system modifications to prepare for implementation. Document software and application defects using a bug tracking system and report defects to software or web developers. Create and maintain databases of known defects. May participate in software design reviews to provide input on functional requirements, operational characteristics, product designs, and schedules.
Source: US Bureau of Labor Statistics, OEWS May 2025 (bls.gov); descriptions and related jobs from O*NET 31.0. Figures as of May 2025, full-time yearly pay (hourly × 2,080 hours). bls.gov/oes · O*NET OnLine
Pages used for the text
- www.bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/software-developers.htm
- www.onetonline.org/link/summary/15-1253.00
- www.mynextmove.org/profile/summary/15-1253.00
- www.bls.gov/oes/earnings.htm
- science.nasa.gov/mission/mars-climate-orbiter
Data: US BLS OEWS, May 2025 · 1 USD = 150 JPY