Explore comprehensive salary data for sdet (software development engineer in test) positions across experience levels and locations. Whether you’re starting your career or negotiating a senior offer, this guide covers what you can expect to earn this year.
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Junior
$95,000 – $130,000
0 - 2 years experience · per year
Mid-Level
$135,000 – $190,000
3 - 5 years experience · per year
Senior
$200,000 – $290,000
6+ years experience · per year
| City | Estimated Salary Range | Cost of Living |
|---|---|---|
| New York, NY | $195,750 – $275,500 | very-high |
| Los Angeles, CA | $195,750 – $275,500 | very-high |
| Chicago, IL | $162,000 – $228,000 | high |
| Houston, TX | $135,000 – $190,000 | moderate |
| Phoenix, AZ | $135,000 – $190,000 | moderate |
| Philadelphia, PA | $162,000 – $228,000 | high |
| San Antonio, TX | $114,750 – $161,500 | low |
| San Diego, CA | $195,750 – $275,500 | very-high |
| Dallas, TX | $135,000 – $190,000 | moderate |
| San Jose, CA | $195,750 – $275,500 | very-high |
City salary estimates are derived from mid-level range adjusted by local cost-of-living index (US average = 100).
Mastering in-demand skills can increase your sdet (software development engineer in test) salary by 10–30%. Employers pay a premium for candidates who bring specialized expertise that is difficult to find in the market.
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