How AI Engineers in South Dakota get paid in 2026 — median, range, experience tiers, metro breakdown, and a comparison against national pay.
Pay tiers reflect typical South Dakota compensation across career stages. Specialized employers may pay above these ranges.
| Experience | Median 2026 | 25th % | 75th % |
|---|---|---|---|
| Entry (0–1 yr) | $110,600 | $84,000 | $143,700 |
| Junior (2–4 yrs) | $137,400 | $104,400 | $178,600 |
| Mid-Level (5–9 yrs) | $158,000 | $120,100 | $205,400 |
| Senior (10–14 yrs) | $189,600 | $144,100 | $246,400 |
| Veteran (15+ yrs) | $214,800 | $163,300 | $279,300 |
Top occupations by median pay in South Dakota — useful context if you're weighing a career switch.
→ See full ranking of top 25 highest-paying jobs in South Dakota
If you'd consider relocating, here's how regional and comparable markets pay for the same job.
The average AI Engineer salary in South Dakota is $158,000 per year as of 2026, based on projections from BLS Occupational Employment Statistics. The 25th percentile sits at $120,100 and the 75th at $205,400.
Pay-wise, South Dakota sits -20% below the national AI Engineer median ($197,500). Wages run below the national median, but cost of living is often correspondingly lower; net purchasing power may be similar to higher-paying states.
Senior AI Engineers (10–14 years of experience) in South Dakota earn around $189,600 per year on average. Veterans with 15+ years can reach $214,800 or more, especially at the 75th percentile and above.
Among all 51 jurisdictions (50 states + DC), South Dakota ranks 49th 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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