AI Research Scientist salaries in San Francisco range from $261,000 to $2,175,000 in 2026. The mid-level median is $529,250, which is 45% above the national average.
Junior (0-2 yrs)
$261,000 – $377,000
Median: $319,000 · per year
Mid-Level (3-5 yrs)
$406,000 – $652,500
Median: $529,250 · per year
Senior (6+ yrs)
$725,000 – $2,175,000
Median: $1,450,000 · per year
Estimate your earning potential based on role, location, and experience.
Estimated AI Research Scientist Salary in San Francisco, CA
Estimated†Median: $989,625 per year (adjusted for San Francisco cost of living)
Junior
$319,000
0-2 yrs
Mid-Level
$529,250
3-5 yrs
Senior
$1,450,000
6+ yrs
| City | Mid-Level Median | Cost of Living |
|---|---|---|
| San Francisco, CA | $529,250 | very high |
| New York, NY | $529,250 | very high |
| Los Angeles, CA | $529,250 | very high |
| Chicago, IL | $438,000 | high |
| Houston, TX | $365,000 | moderate |
| Phoenix, AZ | $365,000 | moderate |