AI Engineer Salary (2025)
AI engineers build and deploy artificial intelligence systems.
The median AI Engineer salary is $161,000 per year ($77/hour). Entry-level AI Engineers earn around $110,000 while experienced AI Engineers earn $230,000 or more annually.
AI Engineer salaries vary based on specialization, with roles in natural language processing and computer vision commanding higher pay. Regional factors also play a significant role; tech hubs like San Francisco and New York offer salaries up to 20% higher than the national median. Experience level significantly influences earnings, with senior roles reaching up to $230,000 annually.
AI-generated insight based on BLS data · For reference only
Salary Range
Median: $161,000 — positioned between entry and senior
Top Paying States for AI Engineers
| State | Est. Annual Salary | vs. National |
|---|---|---|
| Hawaii | $229,000 | +42% |
| California | $222,000 | +38% |
| New York | $206,000 | +28% |
| Alaska | $201,000 | +25% |
| Massachusetts | $201,000 | +25% |
| New Jersey | $193,000 | +20% |
| Connecticut | $190,000 | +18% |
| Washington | $185,000 | +15% |
Estimates based on cost-of-living index adjustments. Actual salaries vary by employer and experience.
How to Become a AI Engineer
Most AI Engineer positions require: Bachelor's in Computer Science + ML experience. Salaries typically increase significantly with experience and specialization.
AI Engineer Salary by State
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average AI Engineer salary?
The median AI Engineer salary is $161,000 per year, which works out to approximately $77/hour based on a 40-hour work week.
How much does an entry-level AI Engineer make?
Entry-level AI Engineers typically earn around $110,000 per year. Salaries grow significantly with experience and specialization.
What is a senior AI Engineer's salary?
Experienced AI Engineers can earn up to $230,000 or more annually depending on location, employer, and specialization.
What education is required to become a AI Engineer?
Most AI Engineer positions require: Bachelor's in Computer Science + ML experience.