ML Engineer Salary Guide (2026)
ML Engineer7 locationsUpdated 2026
Global Salary Range
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Compare compensation across cities to find the best opportunities for your career and lifestyle.
| Location | Salary Range | Median | Cost of LivingCoL |
|---|---|---|---|
| San FranciscoUnited States | $156,276 – $300,778 | $216,805 | 165/100 |
| SeattleUnited States | $118,894 – $327,935 | $197,458 | 145.7/100 |
| New YorkUnited States | $140,000 – $267,000 | $189,063 | 100/100 |
| RemoteUnited States | $135,000 – $215,000 | $168,730 | 100/100 |
| TorontoCanada | CA$110,000 – CA$175,000 | CA$135,000 | 67.4/100 |
| BerlinGermany | €60,000 – €130,000 | €95,000 | 65.7/100 |
| LondonUnited Kingdom | £60,000 – £157,000 | £93,000 | 81.4/100 |
ML Engineer salaries vary significantly by location, experience level, and company size. Across the 7 locations we track, the average median salary is $193,014.
The highest-paying location is San Francisco, where the median salary reaches $216,805 (cost of living index: 165/100). However, high salaries don't always translate to higher purchasing power — factor in the cost of living and tax implications for each location.
United States: US-based ml engineers earn between $118,894 and $327,935. Cities like San Francisco, Seattle and New York offer the most competitive packages.
Europe: European ml engineers typically earn between €60,000 and €130,000. While lower in absolute terms, strong worker protections, healthcare, and paid leave can offset the gap.
United Kingdom: UK-based roles range from £60,000 to £157,000.
These figures reflect base compensation and may not include bonuses, equity grants, or other benefits that can add 10–30% to total compensation at top companies. For the most accurate picture, click into a specific city to see detailed breakdowns, top hiring companies, and career advice tailored to that market.
Go beyond salary data — practical guides to help you land the role and negotiate the best offer.
The average median ml engineer salary across 7 locations is $193,014. However, this varies significantly by location — from $118,894 to $327,935 depending on the city and market.
San Francisco offers the highest median salary at $216,805. US tech hubs generally lead in absolute salary, though European cities can offer better work-life balance and benefits.
Location is one of the biggest factors. The gap between the lowest and highest paying cities can be 2-4x. Cost of living adjustments, local market demand, and company concentration all play a role. Remote positions are increasingly competitive but may adjust based on your location.
The salary ranges shown reflect base compensation. Total compensation at top companies can be 10-30% higher when including annual bonuses, equity/RSU grants, and other benefits. Senior roles at FAANG-level companies often have equity that exceeds base salary.
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