Machine Learning Engineer Salary in San Diego, CA
Machine Learning Engineer salaries in San Diego range from $137,750 to $406,000 in 2026. The mid-level median is $235,625, which is 45% above the national average.
Junior (0-2 yrs)
$137,750 – $188,500
Median: $163,125 · per year
Mid-Level (3-5 yrs)
$203,000 – $268,250
Median: $235,625 · per year
Senior (6+ yrs)
$275,500 – $406,000
Median: $340,750 · per year
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5 years
Entry level20+ years
Estimated Machine Learning Engineer Salary in San Diego, CA
Estimated†$239,250–$337,125/year
Median: $288,188 per year (adjusted for San Diego cost of living)
Junior
$163,125
0-2 yrs
Mid-Level
$235,625
3-5 yrs
Senior
$340,750
6+ yrs
Cost of Living in San Diego
Cost of Living Levelvery high
Population1.4M
Top IndustriesBiotechnology, Defense & Military, Telecommunications
vs National Average+45%
Top Employers in San Diego
QualcommIlluminaNorthrop GrummanUC San Diego HealthGeneral Atomics
How San Diego Compares
| City | Mid-Level Median | Cost of Living |
|---|---|---|
| San Diego, CA | $235,625 | very high |
| New York, NY | $235,625 | very high |
| Los Angeles, CA | $235,625 | very high |
| Chicago, IL | $195,000 | high |
| Houston, TX | $162,500 | moderate |
| Phoenix, AZ | $162,500 | moderate |
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