As of June 01, 2026, the average salary for a Machine Learning Engineer V in the United States is $176,146 per year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $85.
However, a Machine Learning Engineer V's salary can vary significantly. Here’s a look at the typical salary range:
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A Machine Learning Engineer V's salary isn't a fixed number. It's shaped by several important factors. Below, we'll explore how your years of experience, geographic location and company size can directly affect your earning potential.
Experience is a primary driver of a Machine Learning Engineer V's salary. As you build your skills and take on more complex tasks, your compensation generally increases. Here's how the average salary grows at different career stages:
| Job Role | Years of Experience | Average Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Senior Algorithm Engineer | 4-7 years | $121,932 |
| Principal Algorithm Engineer | 7+ years | $158,358 |
| Machine Learning Engineer V | 7-10 years | $176,156 |
| Algorithm Engineering Manager | 10+ years | $176,930 |
| Algorithm Engineering Senior Manager | 10+ years | $198,970 |
What Am I Worth?
Your salary can change significantly depending on where you work. States with a higher cost of living and strong industrial sectors often pay more to attract Machine Learning Engineer Vs. For example, consider the average annual salaries in these key locations:
Demanded Skills for the Role:
| Skills | Demand Percentage |
|---|---|
| Analysis | 2.73% |
| Computer Science | 4.61% |
| Programming | 1.37% |
| Skill | Salary | Salary % Increase |
|---|---|---|
|
Active Learning
|
$197,284 |
12%
|
|
Data-Driven Decision-Making
|
$195,522 |
11%
|
|
Products and Services
|
$191,999 |
9%
|
|
Team Building
|
$186,715 |
6%
|
|
Data Structure
|
$186,715 |
6%
|
|
Team Development
|
$184,953 |
5%
|
Understanding how a Machine Learning Engineer V's annual salary breaks down can help with budgeting. Below, you can see the average hourly rate, weekly pay, and monthly pay for this role. Use the buttons to switch between different pay periods.
Last Updated on June 01, 2026For a Machine Learning Engineer V, the most direct path to higher earnings is advancing to the Artificial Intelligence Engineer VI role. This promotion typically comes with a significant pay increase, bringing the average annual salary to $197,200 - a projected growth of 12% over your current level.
Salaries for a Machine Learning Engineer V can change over time, reflecting shifts in market demand and the overall economy. The median salary increased from $172,227 in 2023 to around $172,230 in 2025, reflecting changes in demand, location, experience, and the wider economy. For a detailed analysis of Machine Learning Engineer V salary trends, .
| Year | Average Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 2022 |
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|
| 2023 | $172,227 |
| 2024 | $174,002 |
| 2025 | $172,230 |
| 2026 |
View More
|
| 2027 |
View More
|
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Both AI and ML engineers are in high demand, and their compensation reflects it. Machine learning engineers have a salary range from $172,867 to $209,621, with a mid-salary of $189,423. In comparison, AI engineers generally earn slightly more, but specific salary data may vary based on experience and location.
Among software engineering roles, the Machine Learning Engineer stands out with a competitive salary range. The minimum salary is $172,867, the mid-level salary is $189,423, and the maximum salary can reach $209,621. This positions Machine Learning Engineers as some of the highest-paid professionals in the field, surpassing many other engineering roles.
A Machine Learning Engineer in the US typically earns between $172,867 and $209,621 annually. The average salary is around $189,423 per year, reflecting the demand and expertise required in this field.
Yes, a Machine Learning Engineer is a high-paying job. The salary data indicates a minimum salary of $172,867, a mid-range salary of $189,423, and a maximum salary of $209,621. This range reflects the lucrative nature of the role, making it an attractive career choice for those in the tech industry.
The highest paid IT job is often the Machine Learning Engineer, with a salary range from $172,867 to $209,621. The average salary is around $189,423, reflecting the high demand for expertise in AI and machine learning technologies. Other top roles include AI/ML Architect, IoT Solutions Architect, and Cloud Architect.
Entry-level Machine Learning Engineers can expect to earn between $172,867 and $189,423 annually, with top earners potentially making up to $209,621. This reflects a more competitive salary range compared to other sources, highlighting the growing demand and value of skills in AI and machine learning.
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