Data Engineer Salary in Buffalo
2026 compensation data for Data Engineer positions in Buffalo, NY. Ranges from $72,000 (entry-level) to $189,000 (senior). Median: $124,000.
Median (Mid)
$124,000
$59.62/hr
vs National
+2%
US: $122,000
COL Index
90
vs US avg = 100
Senior Max
$189,000
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) | $72,000 | $88,000 | $108,000 | $42.31/hr |
| Mid-Level (3–5 yrs) | $104,000 | $124,000 | $144,000 | $59.62/hr |
| Senior (6+ yrs) | $135,000 | $160,000 | $189,000 | $76.92/hr |
What Your Salary Is Really Worth in Buffalo
A mid-level data engineer earning $124,000 in Buffalo has the same buying power as $138,000 in an average US city, after adjusting for the local cost of living (COL index 90).
Cost of living comparisons use a base of 100 (US national average). Higher index = higher housing, transport, and consumer prices.
About Data Engineer Salaries in Buffalo
The median data engineer salary in Buffalo, NY is $124,000 for mid-level professionals, which is 2% above the national median. With a cost of living index of 90 (national average = 100), Buffalo offers an affordable cost of living, making these salaries stretch further.
Entry-level data engineers in Buffalo can expect to earn between $72,000 and $108,000 (about $42.31/hour), while senior professionals with 6+ years of experience earn up to $189,000 ($189K annually, or about $90.87/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 Buffalo.
Frequently Asked Questions: Data Engineer Salary in Buffalo
What is the average Data Engineer salary in Buffalo?+
The average Data Engineer salary in Buffalo is $124,000 for a mid-level professional (3–5 years of experience). Entry-level pay starts around $88,000 and senior-level pay reaches $160,000.
How much does an entry-level data engineer make in Buffalo?+
Entry-level data engineers in Buffalo earn between $72,000 and $108,000, with a median of $88,000 per year (about $42.31/hour).
What is the hourly rate for a Data Engineer in Buffalo?+
Based on a 2,080-hour work year, a Data Engineer in Buffalo earns roughly $42.31/hour at entry-level, $59.62/hour at mid-level, and $76.92/hour at senior-level.
Is the Data Engineer salary in Buffalo higher than the US average?+
Yes — Data Engineer salaries in Buffalo are about 2% higher than the US national median of $122,000.
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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