Machine Learning Engineer salaries in San Francisco 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
Estimate your earning potential based on role, location, and experience.
Estimated Machine Learning Engineer Salary in San Francisco, CA
Estimated†Median: $288,188 per year (adjusted for San Francisco cost of living)
Junior
$163,125
0-2 yrs
Mid-Level
$235,625
3-5 yrs
Senior
$340,750
6+ yrs
| City | Mid-Level Median | Cost of Living |
|---|---|---|
| San Francisco, 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 |