As of August 01, 2026, the average salary for a Machine Learning Developer in San Mateo, CA is $192,562 per year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $93.
However, a Machine Learning Developer's salary can vary significantly. Here’s a look at the typical salary range:
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A Machine Learning Developer'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, skills and company size can directly affect your earning potential.
Experience is a primary driver of a Machine Learning Developer'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:
| Levels | Salary |
|---|---|
| AI Engine... Level Machine Learning Developer | $133,423 |
| AI Engine... Level Machine Learning Developer | $149,949 |
| Machine L... Level Machine Learning Developer | $194,787 |
| AI Engine... Level Machine Learning Developer | $216,642 |
| AI Engine... Level Machine Learning Developer | $217,633 |
What Am I Worth?
Demanded Skills for the Role:
| Skills | Demand Percentage |
|---|---|
| Insight | 3.42% |
| Computer Science | 3.85% |
| Economics | 2.14% |
| Skill | Salary | Salary % Increase |
|---|---|---|
|
Research Design
|
$206,041 |
7%
|
|
Commitment
|
$204,115 |
6%
|
|
Inference
|
$204,115 |
6%
|
|
Continuous Learning
|
$202,190 |
5%
|
|
Empowerment
|
$202,190 |
5%
|
|
Initiative
|
$200,264 |
4%
|
For Machine Learning Developer roles, the industry you choose can affect earning potential by as much as 50% (the gap between the highest and lowest paying industries). Data shows that the Biotechnology and Internet sectors offer the strongest compensation, at 25% above the average. In contrast, Machine Learning Developer positions in Hospitality & Leisure or Transportation typically offer lower base pay, as these industries often view Machine Learning Developer as a support function rather than a direct revenue driver.
| Industry Sector | Average Annual Salary | Average Hourly Rate | Pay vs.Avg |
|---|---|---|---|
| Biotechnology | $240,702 | $116.0 | 25% |
| Internet | $231,074 | $111.0 | 20% |
| Energy & Utilities | $221,446 | $106.0 | 15% |
| Aerospace & Defense | $211,818 | $102.0 | 10% |
| Financial Services | $211,818 | $102.0 | 10% |
Understanding how a Machine Learning Developer'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 August 01, 2026Ready to take the next step in your career? Browse thousands of current Machine Learning Developer job openings on our job board. Use the search bar below to find your perfect match.
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