How much does a Machine Learning Engineer make?
Machine Learning Engineers enjoy a rewarding career with competitive salaries. On average, they earn about $178,826 per year. This figure can vary based on experience, location, and the specific industry. For those just starting, salaries can be lower, but the potential for growth is significant.
Experienced Machine Learning Engineers often see their salaries rise. Those with more than ten years in the field can make upwards of $272,000 annually. Companies in tech hubs like Silicon Valley or New York City typically offer higher salaries. Industries such as finance and healthcare also provide lucrative opportunities for these professionals.
What are the highest paying cities for a Machine Learning Engineer?

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San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $206,665
In San Francisco, tech giants like Google and Salesforce offer exciting opportunities. The city's vibrant tech scene provides many chances to work on cutting-edge projects. Professionals here enjoy a dynamic work environment with plenty of collaboration.
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Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $197,239
Seattle is home to tech leaders like Amazon and Microsoft. Working here means being part of a thriving tech community. Employees often have access to innovative projects and a supportive work culture.
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Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $186,702
Los Angeles offers a mix of tech startups and established companies. Working in this city can lead to diverse projects and a dynamic work environment. The city's entertainment industry also adds a unique flavor to the tech scene.
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San Jose, CA
Average Salary: $176,350
San Jose, the heart of Silicon Valley, is a hub for tech innovation. Companies like Apple and Intel offer exciting opportunities. Professionals here work on groundbreaking projects in a fast-paced environment.
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San Diego, CA
Average Salary: $171,468
San Diego combines a relaxed lifestyle with a thriving tech industry. Companies like Qualcomm and Illumina provide opportunities to work on innovative projects. The city offers a great balance between work and a pleasant living environment.
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Boulder, CO
Average Salary: $164,800
Boulder offers a unique blend of natural beauty and tech innovation. Companies like Google and Facebook have a strong presence here. Professionals enjoy a supportive community and a focus on sustainability and innovation.
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Austin, TX
Average Salary: $163,182
Austin is known for its vibrant tech scene and live music. Companies like Dell and IBM offer exciting opportunities. The city's welcoming atmosphere and strong community make it a great place to work.
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Hartford, CT
Average Salary: $159,845
Hartford offers a mix of tech startups and established companies. Working here means being part of a growing tech community. The city provides a supportive environment with plenty of opportunities for growth.
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Washington, DC
Average Salary: $159,116
Washington, DC, is a hub for tech and government. Companies like Amazon and Google offer exciting opportunities. Professionals here work on impactful projects in a dynamic and collaborative environment.
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Boston, MA
Average Salary: $157,149
Boston is a center for tech innovation and education. Companies like IBM and Fidelity offer exciting opportunities. The city's rich history and vibrant culture provide a unique backdrop for a tech career.
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What are the best companies a Machine Learning Engineer can work for?

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Netflix
Average Salary: $423,478
Netflix offers exciting opportunities for Machine Learning Engineers. They work on projects like improving recommendation systems and enhancing user experience. Netflix operates globally, with major offices in Los Gatos, California, and international offices in various countries.
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Pinterest
Average Salary: $258,638
At Pinterest, Machine Learning Engineers develop algorithms to personalize user feeds and improve search results. The company has its headquarters in San Francisco, California, and additional offices in Europe and Asia.
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National Basketball Association
Average Salary: $255,000
The NBA employs Machine Learning Engineers to analyze player performance and improve game strategies. They have offices in New York City and various locations across the United States.
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Zoox
Average Salary: $245,583
Zoox, a self-driving car company, seeks Machine Learning Engineers to develop autonomous driving technologies. They are based in Foster City, California, with plans for expansion.
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Angi
Average Salary: $242,969
Angi offers roles for Machine Learning Engineers to enhance their service matching algorithms. They operate in multiple locations, including Denver, Colorado, and Austin, Texas.
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Snap Inc.
Average Salary: $242,578
Snap Inc. hires Machine Learning Engineers to improve augmented reality features and user engagement. They have offices in Los Angeles, California, and other locations worldwide.
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Samsung Electronics
Average Salary: $234,631
Samsung Electronics provides opportunities for Machine Learning Engineers to work on AI and machine learning projects. They have a global presence, with major offices in South Korea and the United States.
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Waymo
Average Salary: $233,131
Waymo, a self-driving car company, employs Machine Learning Engineers to develop autonomous driving technologies. They are headquartered in Mountain View, California.
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SAP
Average Salary: $230,841
SAP offers roles for Machine Learning Engineers to enhance their enterprise software solutions. They have offices worldwide, including in Walldorf, Germany, and various locations in the United States.
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Coupang
Average Salary: $230,600
Coupang, an e-commerce company, seeks Machine Learning Engineers to improve their recommendation systems and logistics. They are based in Seoul, South Korea, with additional offices in the United States.
How to earn more as a Machine Learning Engineer?
A Machine Learning Engineer can increase their earning potential by focusing on several key areas. Specialization in a high-demand field within machine learning, such as computer vision or natural language processing, can significantly boost salary. Continuous learning and staying updated with the latest technologies and trends in machine learning also play a crucial role. Networking with industry professionals and participating in relevant conferences and workshops can open up higher-paying opportunities. Gaining experience with popular machine learning frameworks and tools, such as TensorFlow or PyTorch, can make a candidate more attractive to employers. Finally, obtaining certifications from recognized institutions can enhance credibility and lead to better job offers.
To maximize earnings, a Machine Learning Engineer should consider the following factors:
- Specialize in high-demand areas of machine learning.
- Stay updated with the latest technologies and trends.
- Network with industry professionals and attend relevant events.
- Gain proficiency in popular machine learning frameworks and tools.
- Obtain certifications from recognized institutions.



