AI/ML Engineer Salary in Austin
2026 compensation data for AI/ML Engineer positions in Austin, TX. Ranges from $103,000 (entry-level) to $302,000 (senior). Median: $178,000.
Median (Mid)
$178,000
$85.58/hr
vs National
+0%
US: $178,000
COL Index
110
vs US avg = 100
Senior Max
$302,000
Top of band
Salary Ranges by Experience Level
Detailed Compensation Breakdown
| Level | Annual Min | Annual Median | Annual Max | Hourly (Median) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-Level (0–2 yrs) | $103,000 | $127,000 | $151,000 | $61.06/hr |
| Mid-Level (3–5 yrs) | $146,000 | $178,000 | $211,000 | $85.58/hr |
| Senior (6+ yrs) | $200,000 | $248,000 | $302,000 | $119.23/hr |
What Your Salary Is Really Worth in Austin
A mid-level ai/ml engineer earning $178,000 in Austin has the same buying power as $162,000 in an average US city, after adjusting for the local cost of living (COL index 110).
Cost of living comparisons use a base of 100 (US national average). Higher index = higher housing, transport, and consumer prices.
About AI/ML Engineer Salaries in Austin
The median ai/ml engineer salary in Austin, TX is $178,000 for mid-level professionals, which is 0% above the national median. With a cost of living index of 110 (national average = 100), Austin offers a moderate cost of living with competitive salaries.
Entry-level ai/ml engineers in Austin can expect to earn between $103,000 and $151,000 (about $61.06/hour), while senior professionals with 6+ years of experience earn up to $302,000 ($302K annually, or about $145.19/hour).
These figures represent base salary only and do not include bonuses, equity, or benefits, which can add 20–50% to total compensation — especially at technology companies and in competitive markets like Austin.
Frequently Asked Questions: AI/ML Engineer Salary in Austin
What is the average AI/ML Engineer salary in Austin?+
The average AI/ML Engineer salary in Austin is $178,000 for a mid-level professional (3–5 years of experience). Entry-level pay starts around $127,000 and senior-level pay reaches $248,000.
How much does an entry-level ai/ml engineer make in Austin?+
Entry-level ai/ml engineers in Austin earn between $103,000 and $151,000, with a median of $127,000 per year (about $61.06/hour).
What is the hourly rate for a AI/ML Engineer in Austin?+
Based on a 2,080-hour work year, a AI/ML Engineer in Austin earns roughly $61.06/hour at entry-level, $85.58/hour at mid-level, and $119.23/hour at senior-level.
Is the AI/ML Engineer salary in Austin higher than the US average?+
Yes — AI/ML Engineer salaries in Austin are about 0% higher than the US national median of $178,000.
Does this include bonuses or equity?+
No — these figures are base salary only. Total compensation (base + bonus + equity + benefits) is typically 20–50% higher, and can be 2–3x at top technology and finance employers.
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