Machine Learning Engineer Salary in New York (2026) — Offer Benchmark

The median Machine Learning Engineer salary in New York is $199k — ranging from $155k for junior roles to $258k at the senior level. Machine learning engineers combine strong CS fundamentals with specialised ML knowledge, commanding some of the highest salaries in the industry.

Below you'll find salary bands by experience level, plus a breakdown of what's considered a strong, fair, or weak offer for this market.

Estimates based on public benchmarks and modelled data. How we calculate →

At a glance

2026 · Gross annual base salary
Median salary
$199k
Typical range
$155k$258k
Senior median
$314k
Weak offer below
$147k

Gross annual base salary estimates · 2026 · Public benchmarks + structured modelling · Methodology →

Machine Learning Engineer salary bands in New York

Junior (0–2 yrs)
Typical range
$86k$143k
Median: $111k
Mid-level (3–5 yrs)
Typical range
$155k$258k
Median: $199k
Senior (6–10 yrs)
Typical range
$250k$381k
Median: $314k
Staff / Lead (11+ yrs)
Typical range
$335k$497k
Median: $413k

Gross annual base salary estimates for 2026. Bonuses and equity not included.

Is your offer good?

Knowing the market range is step one. The real question is where your specific offer sits within it — and how much room you have to negotiate. If your offer is in the bottom 30% for your role and location, there's a strong case to push back.

Use the CompVerdict tool to get your verdict instantly. No signup, no email. You'll also get a ready-to-send negotiation script based on your exact offer.

Check this offer →

Frequently asked questions

What is the average Machine Learning Engineer salary in New York?

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The median Machine Learning Engineer salary in New York is $199k per year for mid-level experience (3–5 years). The range runs from $155k at the 25th percentile to $258k at the 75th percentile. Senior Machine Learning Engineers typically earn around $314k or more. These are gross annual base salary estimates.

Is my Machine Learning Engineer offer in New York competitive?

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A Machine Learning Engineer offer in New York is competitive if it reaches the 75th percentile for your experience band — around $258k for mid-level (3–5 years). If your offer is below $155k, there's a clear case to negotiate. Use the tool above to check your specific offer against the market.

How much should I ask for as a Machine Learning Engineer in New York?

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For a mid-level Machine Learning Engineer in New York, the market median is $199k. A strong ask targets $258k or above. If your offer is below $155k, open negotiations by anchoring at the median — that's $199k. Always lead with market data rather than personal need when negotiating.

Should I negotiate my Machine Learning Engineer offer in New York?

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If your offer is below the 75th percentile for your experience band, negotiating is almost always worth it. Most companies expect negotiation — the first offer is rarely the best possible offer. The risk of asking politely is low; the cost of not asking can compound over years through salary anchoring effects.

How do Machine Learning Engineer salaries in New York vary by experience?

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Experience is the strongest driver of Machine Learning Engineer compensation in New York. Junior roles (0–2 years) typically earn 55–70% of the mid-level median. Senior roles (6+ years) typically earn 125–150% of mid-level. Staff / lead roles can reach 150–200% depending on scope and company stage.

Salary estimates are based on public benchmarks and modelled data. They represent gross annual base salary and do not include bonuses, equity, or benefits. Read our methodology →