As of March 01, 2026, the average annual salary for ai software engineer in the US is $128,274, equivalent to $62 per hour, $2,467 weekly, or $10,690 monthly. These figures, sourced from Salary.com’s real-time job posting scans, highlight competitive earning potential for ai software engineer in cities like Santa Clara, San Jose, and Fremont.

Annually Salaries for ai software engineer in the US vary widely, spanning from $108,766 to $149,200. Most professionals fall between the 25th percentile ($118,063) and 75th percentile ($139,228), while top earners (90th percentile) make $149,200 per year. This $21,165 pay gap underscores opportunities for salary growth through certifications, specialized skills like Analysis or Software Development, or targeting high-paying regions like District of Columbia or California.

Location and experience significantly influence earnings. For example, District of Columbia ai software engineer often earn 10.7% above national averages due to demand from Fortune 39 companies and industry startups. Professionals are advised to focus on high-growth sectors like to offset market challenges.

Based on HR-reported data: a national average with a geographic differential
ai software engineer Salaries by Percentile
Percentile Salary Location Last Updated
10th Percentile ai software engineer Salary $108,766 US March 01, 2026
25th Percentile ai software engineer Salary $118,063 US March 01, 2026
50th Percentile ai software engineer Salary $128,274 US March 01, 2026
75th Percentile ai software engineer Salary $139,228 US March 01, 2026
90th Percentile ai software engineer Salary $149,200 US March 01, 2026
25% $118,063 10% $108,766 90% $149,200 75% $139,228 $128,274 50%(Median) Didn’t find job title? Click
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Check out ai software engineer jobs in Columbus, Ohio

Staff AI Software Engineer

Northrop Grumman Corp. (JP) - Beavercreek, OH

AI Software Engineer

Expedient Holdings USA, LLC - Cleveland, OH

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What is An ai software engineer ?

An AI Software Engineer is responsible for designing, developing, and implementing artificial intelligence solutions to solve complex problems. This role involves collaborating with data scientists and other engineers to create algorithms and models that enhance machine learning capabilities. Key responsibilities include coding in languages such as Python or Java, optimizing AI models for performance, and conducting experiments to validate results. The salary for an AI Software Engineer varies based on experience, location, and the specific industry. Entry-level positions typically start at ...

Source: (as of 06/04/2025). Read more from

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Understand the total compensation opportunity for An ai software engineer, base salary plus other pay elements

Average Base Salary

Core compensation

 
 
 
118063
139228
128274

Average Total Cash Compensation

Includes base and annual incentives

 
 
 
128470
157599
142327
These charts show the average base salary (core compensation), as well as the average total cash compensation for the job of ai software engineer in the United States. The base salary for ai software engineer ranges from $118,063 to $139,228 with the average base salary of $128,274. The total cash compensation, which includes base, and annual incentives, can vary anywhere from $128,470 to $157,599 with the average total cash compensation of $142,327.

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118063
139228

 

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