NRI PULSE STAFF REPORT
A new analysis of U.S. Department of Labor data is challenging the widespread perception that H-1B workers are primarily employed in lower-paying technology outsourcing jobs.
According to an analysis by H1BScope, seven U.S. employers sponsoring H-1B workers reported median salaries at least 50 percent higher than the national median for H-1B employees. The findings are based on certified Labor Condition Application (LCA) filings and include only employers with at least 500 H-1B certifications to avoid distortions from smaller datasets.
The national median salary for H-1B workers in the FY2026 data is $130,707, meaning employers on the list paid median salaries of approximately $196,000 or more.
Among the highest-paying employers were:
- University of Pittsburgh Physicians – $255,725
- Roblox – $245,690
- Citadel Securities Americas Services – $235,000
- Netflix – $226,158
Credit Karma, Two Sigma Investments and TT Commerce & Global Services also reported median H-1B salaries that were at least 50 percent above the national benchmark.
Why the Salaries Are So High
The employers topping the list operate in industries where advanced expertise commands premium compensation.
University of Pittsburgh Physicians sponsors doctors and medical specialists, while Roblox and Netflix recruit experienced software engineers, AI specialists, and infrastructure experts. Citadel Securities, one of the world’s leading quantitative trading firms, hires software engineers, quantitative researchers, and traders whose compensation ranks among the highest in the financial industry.
These positions often require advanced degrees, specialized technical skills, or years of experience, contributing to salaries well above the H-1B average.
A Different Picture Than the Typical H-1B Debate
The findings come at a time when the H-1B program remains under intense political scrutiny. Critics have long argued that some employers use the visa program to hire foreign workers at lower wages, particularly in the IT consulting sector.
While Department of Labor rules require employers to pay at least the prevailing wage for a position and location, salary levels vary widely depending on the industry, occupation, and employer.
Large technology consulting firms—including several major Indian IT services companies—generally report lower median H-1B salaries than elite technology companies and quantitative finance firms, although they remain subject to prevailing wage requirements.
The data suggests that the H-1B program encompasses a broad spectrum of employers—from outsourcing firms and entry-level technology positions to highly compensated physicians, AI researchers, and finance professionals.
H-1B Salaries Outpace U.S. Median Wages
The FY2026 median H-1B salary of $130,707 is itself substantially higher than the median wage for all U.S. workers, reflecting the program’s concentration in specialized occupations requiring advanced education and technical expertise.
Supporters of the H1-B visa program argue the visa remains essential for filling shortages in specialized fields such as medicine, engineering, artificial intelligence, and scientific research.
