How AI Engineers in Minnesota get paid in 2026 — median, range, experience tiers, metro breakdown, and a comparison against national pay.
Pay tiers reflect typical Minnesota compensation across career stages. Specialized employers may pay above these ranges.
| Experience | Median 2026 | 25th % | 75th % |
|---|---|---|---|
| Entry (0–1 yr) | $149,300 | $113,400 | $194,100 |
| Junior (2–4 yrs) | $185,500 | $141,000 | $241,200 |
| Mid-Level (5–9 yrs) | $213,300 | $162,100 | $277,300 |
| Senior (10–14 yrs) | $255,900 | $194,500 | $332,700 |
| Veteran (15+ yrs) | $290,000 | $220,400 | $377,100 |
Pay varies sharply within Minnesota. Major metros usually outpay state-wide averages.
| Metro | Median | 25th % | 75th % | vs Minnesota |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Minneapolis | $219,600 | $166,900 | $285,500 | +3% |
Top occupations by median pay in Minnesota — useful context if you're weighing a career switch.
→ See full ranking of top 25 highest-paying jobs in Minnesota
If you'd consider relocating, here's how regional and comparable markets pay for the same job.
The average AI Engineer salary in Minnesota is $213,300 per year as of 2026, based on projections from BLS Occupational Employment Statistics. The 25th percentile sits at $162,100 and the 75th at $277,300.
Pay-wise, Minnesota sits +8% above the national AI Engineer median ($197,500). That makes it one of the stronger markets — though cost of living should always be factored in alongside raw salary.
Senior AI Engineers (10–14 years of experience) in Minnesota earn around $255,900 per year on average. Veterans with 15+ years can reach $290,000 or more, especially at the 75th percentile and above.
Among all 51 jurisdictions (50 states + DC), Minnesota ranks 15th for AI Engineer pay. The highest-paying state pays around $345,700 on average.
The median is a benchmark, not a verdict. Your exact market value depends on your experience and education — plus your specific employer's pay band. Run the free calculator for a personalized number.
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