Where AI Engineers Are Making Bank, Report Reveals 12 Top States

The potential income for AI specialists in the U.S. varies greatly depending on location. New research from StoryChief.io highlights job listings related to AI as per Glassdoor analysis. These locations emerge as key hubs for lucrative AI opportunities in the country.

California

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California tops the list with an impressive $150,110 annual salary for AI specialists. The substantial increase in the average salary in this state reflects the state’s thriving tech industry and high cost of living.

Silicon Valley’s concentration of tech giants and startups fuels fierce competition for top AI talent. This results in a significant increase in salaries.

Washington

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Washington state emerges as a strong contender, offering AI professionals an average salary of $143,570. The presence of major tech companies like Microsoft and Amazon in the Seattle area contributes to this high compensation.

These huge earnings are all the more alluring in Washington since there is no state income tax.

New York

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New York ranks third, with AI specialists earning an average of $136,800 annually. The state’s diverse economy, including the finance and media sector, drives demand for AI expertise.

New York’s status as a global business hub attracts top talents. It necessitates competitive salaries to retain skilled professionals. 

Oregon

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Oregon offers an AI salary advantage, with professionals earning an average of $134,190. This represents a substantial increase above the national average. The state’s growing tech scene, particularly in Portland, contributes to this trend.

Lower living costs compared to California make Oregon an attractive alternative for AI specialists seeking high compensation.

Nevada

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Nevada’s AI professionals enjoy an average salary of $123,200. The surge in compensation from the national average reflects the state’s efforts to diversify its economy beyond tourism and gaming.

Nevada’s business-friendly tax environment and growing tech sector contribute to the rising demand for AI expertise. 

Colorado

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Colorado offers AI specialists an average salary of $119,920. The state’s budding tech ecosystem, particularly in the Denver-Boulder area, drives this competitive compensation. Colorado’s high quality of life and outdoor amenities serve as additional incentives for attracting top AI talent. 

Montana

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Montana’s AI professionals earn an average of $117,710. This unexpected salary advantage may stem from the state’s efforts to attract tech companies and remote workers. Montana’s lower cost of living allows employers to offer competitive salaries while maintaining lower overhead costs. 

New Hampshire

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New Hampshire provides AI specialists with an average salary of $117,410. The state’s proximity to Boston’s tech hub and its lack of income tax contribute to this high compensation. New Hampshire’s high quality of life and lower cost of living compared to nearby states increases its appeal. 

Connecticut

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Connecticut offers AI professionals an average of $116,100. The state’s strong financial services sector and proximity to New York City drive demand for AI expertise. Connecticut’s highly educated workforce and prestigious universities contribute to the competitive compensation for AI specialists.

New Jersey

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New Jersey’s AI professionals earn an average of $115,600. The state’s pharmaceutical and financial industries fuel demand for AI talent. New Jersey’s proximity to New York City and Philadelphia allows it to tap into larger talent pools while offering competitive salaries.

Rhode Island

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Rhode Island provides AI specialists with an average salary of $111,440. The state’s compact size and strategic location between Boston and New York contributed to this high compensation. Rhode Island’s efforts to attract tech companies and startups drive the demand for AI expertise. 

Massachusetts

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Massachusetts offers AI professionals an average salary of $111,350. The state’s renowned universities and thriving biotech sector fuel demand for AI talent. Boston’s status as a major tech hub ensures competitive salaries to attract and retain skilled AI specialists.

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