Top 5 US States for AI Jobs

In this article, we will look at the top 5 US states for AI jobs. We have also discussed the growth of AI in the employment landscape in the US in another article. If you are interested in reading about that along with a more extensive list, head straight to the Top 20 US States for AI Jobs.

5. Texas

Average Salary: $127,185

Job Postings: 66,624

Texas is one of the top paying states for AI professionals mainly due to its vibrant tech ecosystem anchored by industry giants like IBM, Google, and Nvidia. Additionally, the state’s top-ranked academic institutions such as the University of Texas at Austin and Rice University, foster groundbreaking research and talent development in AI. Moreover, Texas has a favorable business climate, with low taxes and strong infrastructure, attracting leading AI startups such as CognitiveScale and SparkCognition.

4. Illinois 

Average Salary: $128,489

Job Postings: 31,569

Illinois leads in AI jobs, confirming its potential for being a hub of artificial intelligence. It is interesting to observe how the Illinois Judicial Conference’s AI Task Force, with six judges among its 21 members, has showed the state’s commitment to using AI in law. The state believes that AI tools promise to make legal processes faster and fairer, helping judges and people in court. Professor Daniel Linna says AI can speed up legal research and make tasks easier for judges and their teams. Thus, Illinois aims to use AI responsibly, embracing innovation while ensuring fairness and efficiency in the legal system.

3. Maryland

Average Salary: $130,611

Job Postings: 16,769

Maryland is a top state for AI jobs primarily due to its designation as a federal tech hub, receiving a substantial influx of funding and support. This federal initiative is overseen by the U.S. Commerce Department and positions Maryland as one of 31 designated hubs, competing for a share of $10 billion in funding over five years. 

Moreover, collaboration among various stakeholders, including academic institutions like Morgan State University and industry players like Fearless and Mindgrub Technologies, strengthens Maryland’s position. The state’s emphasis on predictive healthcare, supported by diverse projects ranging from accelerators to workforce development initiatives, showcases its comprehensive approach to AI implementation. Additionally, Maryland’s commitment to equitable development, ensuring AI advancements remain unbiased, aligns with broader societal concerns, further enhancing its attraction as a leading place for AI jobs and innovation.

2. California

Average Salary: $132,464

Job Postings: 142,154

California is one of the leading states for AI jobs, boasting 35 of the world’s top 50 AI companies. Governor Newsom’s executive order confirms this dominance who has directed state agencies to prioritize AI regulation and workforce development. With a $310.8 billion budget, California aims to reform procurement processes, ensuring AI purchases align with ethical standards. This proactive stance sets a precedent, with California likely to establish de facto national standards due to its significant influence. By addressing AI’s societal implications and promoting responsible innovation, California solidifies its position as the epicenter of AI industry and job growth in the United States.

1. New York

Average Salary: $144,249

Job Postings: 43,899

Firstly, the presence of renowned academic institutions like Columbia University, New York University, and Cornell Tech fosters a fertile environment for cutting-edge research and development in artificial intelligence. These institutions attract top talent and serve as breeding grounds for innovative AI startups and initiatives. Additionally, the state’s vibrant tech ecosystem, particularly in cities like New York City and Albany, provides ample opportunities for collaboration, investment, and networking within the AI community.

Moreover, New York’s status as a global financial and commercial center contributes significantly to the demand for AI expertise. Industries such as finance, healthcare, media, and advertising are increasingly leveraging AI technologies to enhance operations, analyze data, and drive innovation. This demand fuels the growth of AI-related job opportunities across various sectors, making New York State an attractive destination for professionals seeking to advance their careers in artificial intelligence. With high number of job postings and lucrative salaries, New York is the top US state for AI jobs in 2024.

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