As of April 01, 2026, the average salary for an Actuary I in the United States is $80,802 per year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $39.
However, an Actuary I's salary can vary significantly. Here’s a look at the typical salary range:
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An Actuary I's salary isn't a fixed number. It's shaped by several important factors. Below, we'll explore how your years of experience, geographic location, education and company size can directly affect your earning potential.
Experience is a primary driver of an Actuary I's salary. As you build your skills and take on more complex tasks, your compensation generally increases. Here's how the average salary grows at different career stages:
| Job Role | Years of Experience | Average Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Actuary I | 0-2 years | $80,802 |
| Actuary II | 2-4 years | $90,099 |
| Actuary III | 4-7 years | $105,811 |
| Actuary IV | 7+ years | $140,792 |
| Actuary V | 7-10 years | $164,945 |
What Am I Worth?
Your salary can change significantly depending on where you work. States with a higher cost of living and strong industrial sectors often pay more to attract Actuary Is. For example, consider the average annual salaries in these key locations:
Demanded Skills for the Role:
| Skills | Demand Percentage |
|---|---|
| Analysis | 9.91% |
| Economics | 2.2% |
| Collective Bargaining | 1.06% |
| Skill | Salary | Salary % Increase |
|---|---|---|
|
SAS/SQL
|
$86,458 |
7%
|
|
Time Management
|
$85,650 |
6%
|
|
Coaching
|
$85,650 |
6%
|
|
Communication Skills
|
$83,226 |
3%
|
|
Reinsurance
|
$83,226 |
3%
|
|
Products and Services
|
$83,226 |
3%
|
Your level of education can impact your salary potential. While many Actuary Is enter the field with a Associate's Degree degree, higher education can lead to more specialized and higher-paying roles.
According to our 100% employer-reported salary data, the median salary for an Actuary I with a Associate's Degree is between $75,555 and $80,541).
Actuary I Salaries by Degree Level
| Degree Level | % of user with this level of education |
|---|---|
| No Diploma | 0.7% |
| High School | 8.9% |
| Associates | 3.9% |
| Bachelors | 64.0% |
| Masters | 20.5% |
| Doctorate | 2.1% |
Understanding how an Actuary I's annual salary breaks down can help with budgeting. Below, you can see the average hourly rate, weekly pay, and monthly pay for this role. Use the buttons to switch between different pay periods.
Last Updated on April 01, 2026For an Actuary I, the most direct path to higher earnings is advancing to the Actuary II role. This promotion typically comes with a significant pay increase, bringing the average annual salary to $90,099 - a projected growth of 12% over your current level.
Salaries for an Actuary I can change over time, reflecting shifts in market demand and the overall economy. The median salary decreased from $75,691 in 2023 to around $74,763 in 2025, reflecting changes in demand, location, experience, and the wider economy. For a detailed analysis of Actuary I salary trends, .
| Year | Average Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 2022 |
View More
|
| 2023 | $75,691 |
| 2024 | $75,756 |
| 2025 | $74,763 |
| 2026 |
View More
|
| 2027 |
View More
|
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An Actuary I's earning potential can vary widely depending on several factors, including location, industry, experience, education, and the specific employer. According to the latest salary data by Salary.com, an Actuary I earns the most in San Jose, CA, where the annual salary of an Actuary I is $101,916.
The highest pay for Actuary I is $95,877.
The lowest pay for Actuary I is $66,533.
Utilizes statistical analysis and modeling to assess and manage risk and estimate financial outcomes. Compiles, prepares, and analyzes data to develop statistical models, probability tables, and actuarial studies and evaluate the likelihood and financial impact of various risks. Assists with product design and development by analyzing risk groups and calculating appropriate insurance rates, premium levels, and rating systems and structures. Records and tracks accruals, claims, and settlements and prepares documents for input into regulatory filings, financial budgets, forecasts, and other financial projections. Applies knowledge of mathematics, probability, statistics, principles of finance and business to calculations in life, health, social, and casualty insurance, annuities, and pensions. Requires a bachelor's degree. Must be currently pursuing the designation of ASA (Associate) in the Society of Actuaries. Typically reports to a manager. Work is closely managed. Works on projects/matters of limited complexity in a support role. Typically requires 0-2 years of related experience.
Salary.com provides salary estimates, histograms, trends, and comparisons using data from employer job postings and third-party sources.
We offer detailed salary information across multiple percentiles for your reference. (Click here to learn Why the Salary Midpoint Formula Is Crucial for Achieving Pay Equity.)
With the most extensive online, real-time compensation data available, Salary.com helps you pinpoint your exact pay target.
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