Software Quality Assurance Analyst Salary in Chicago-Naperville-Elgin
Tests software to identify defects, automates test suites, and ensures release quality.
Chicago-Naperville-Elgin ranks #132 of 530 U.S. metro areas for software quality assurance analyst pay. Entry-level salaries here are $9,770 above the national average.
Chicago-Naperville-Elgin vs National Average
| Level | This Metro | National Avg | Difference | % Change |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Level I (Entry) | $71,427 | $61,657 | +$9,770 | +15.8% |
| Level II | $88,088 | $78,097 | +$9,991 | +12.8% |
| Level III (Mid) | $104,728 | $94,537 | +$10,191 | +10.8% |
| Level IV (Senior) | $121,389 | $110,978 | +$10,411 | +9.4% |
Other metros in Illinois
| Metro Area | Level I | Level IV | Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| Northwest Illinois | $70,970 | $120,931 | $104,458 |
| Kankakee | $70,824 | $120,744 | $104,270 |
| Rockford | $65,728 | $111,093 | $96,117 |
| Bloomington | $68,328 | $103,334 | $91,790 |
| Springfield | $57,034 | $100,797 | $86,362 |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average software quality assurance analyst salary in Chicago-Naperville-Elgin?
The average software quality assurance analyst salary in Chicago-Naperville-Elgin is $104,915 per year, based on U.S. Department of Labor employer survey data. This places Chicago-Naperville-Elgin at rank #132 out of 530 U.S. metro areas surveyed.
What do entry-level software quality assurance analysts earn in Chicago-Naperville-Elgin?
Entry-level software quality assurance analysts (Level I) in Chicago-Naperville-Elgin earn $71,427 per year. Level II (early career) earns $88,088, reflecting growing independence and experience.
How does Chicago-Naperville-Elgin compare to the national average for software quality assurance analyst salaries?
Chicago-Naperville-Elgin ranks #132 of 530 U.S. metro areas for software quality assurance analyst pay. Entry-level salaries here are $9,770 above the national average. The national average software quality assurance analyst salary is $94,702, while Chicago-Naperville-Elgin workers average $104,915 — a difference of +11% overall.
Data source: Salary data sourced from the U.S. Department of Labor Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS) program, which surveys employers nationwide to collect wage data by occupation and geography. The four experience levels reflect DOL standardized tiers. Data reflects the most recently published survey cycle. SOC code: 15-1253.