San Francisco sub-market · Rank #3 of 17 for this discipline
Machine-learning alpha in San Francisco
What is the machine-learning alpha market like in San Francisco?
San Francisco is one of the core global centres for machine-learning alpha. Machine-learning driven strategies use modern statistical learning and alternative data to find non-linear structure in markets. It is the fastest-growing research discipline and competes directly with AI labs for talent. Typical holding horizon is intraday to weeks, hiring concentrates on quant researcher, quant developer, and 3 of the firms we track run a San Francisco desk. Pay sits at roughly 95% of the New York benchmark for the equivalent role and seniority, quoted in USD.
Machine-learning alpha compensation in San Francisco
Modelled total compensation for the roles this discipline hires, across every seniority we model, in USD.
| Role | Range | Reference estimate |
|---|---|---|
| Quant Researcher | $219k – $2.4m | $451k |
| Quant Developer | $171k – $1.1m | $323k |
Methodology
Figures are expressed as annual total compensation (base salary plus expected performance bonus) in the reference market's local currency, converted from a US dollar base. They describe typical market ranges rather than any individual offer, and exclude sign-on payments, deferred equity and carried interest. Portfolio-manager figures reflect formulaic profit-share arrangements and are therefore far more dispersed than any other role.
KnowQuantIndex 2026.1 · Updated September 2026
Modelled bands describe the market, not an individual offer. Where an employer states pay, the stated figure is used and labelled as such.
San Francisco · Machine-learning alpha · KnowQuant 2026.1