Quantitative AI Researcher Salary.
Across 83 U.S. cities.
$200,000
national median salary
$150,000 to $260,000. Last updated April 2026.
Highest Paying
$281,000
San Francisco, CA
Best Purchasing Power
$208,000
San Francisco, CA
Lowest Paying
$156,000
Jackson, MS
Salary data sourced from SEC filings, H-1B Labor Condition Applications (DOL), Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, and aggregated job postings across 50+ platforms. Ranges reflect 25th to 75th percentile for full-time positions. Cost-of-living adjustments use Bureau of Economic Analysis Regional Price Parities (2025 index). Last updated April 2026.
The average Quantitative AI Researcher salary in the United States is $200,000 in 2026, with the full range spanning $150,000 at the 25th percentile to $260,000 at the 75th. San Francisco pays the most at $281,000, while San Francisco offers the best purchasing power after cost-of-living adjustments. Compensation reflects the direct revenue impact of research.
Quantitative AI Researcher salary by city
Skills that increase Quantitative AI Researcher pay
The skills below command measurable salary premiums for Quantitative AI Researchers based on job posting data. Learning the top skill here could add $28,000 to your annual compensation.
≈ +$28,000 per year
≈ +$26,000 per year
≈ +$24,000 per year
≈ +$22,000 per year
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≈ +$18,000 per year
What you should know
Compensation reflects the direct revenue impact of research. Researchers who develop novel AI signals with demonstrated predictive power earn the highest salaries. Publication record matters less than Sharpe ratios in the trading context. Expertise in time series modeling, reinforcement learning for portfolio optimization, and alternative data processing drives premiums.
Junior quant researchers start at $140,000 to $170,000 base with significant bonus potential. Mid-level researchers with deployed strategies reach $190,000 to $230,000 base. Senior researchers managing research teams earn $240,000 to $300,000+ base. Portfolio managers with AI expertise have uncapped earning potential.
Performance bonuses at top quantitative firms regularly equal 100% to 300% of base salary. Total compensation of $400,000 to $1,000,000+ is achievable at firms like Two Sigma, DE Shaw, and Citadel. Deferred compensation and profit sharing structures are common. Signing bonuses of $50,000 to $150,000 attract top talent.