ML Research Engineer Salary in Austin
2026 compensation data for ML Research Engineer positions in Austin, TX. Ranges from $140,000 (entry-level) to $378,000 (senior). Median: $221,000.
Median (Mid)
$221,000
$106.25/hr
vs National
-5%
US: $232,000
COL Index
110
vs US avg = 100
Senior Max
$378,000
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) | $140,000 | $167,000 | $194,000 | $80.29/hr |
| Mid-Level (3–5 yrs) | $184,000 | $221,000 | $259,000 | $106.25/hr |
| Senior (6+ yrs) | $238,000 | $308,000 | $378,000 | $148.08/hr |
What Your Salary Is Really Worth in Austin
A mid-level ml research engineer earning $221,000 in Austin has the same buying power as $201,000 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 ML Research Engineer Salaries in Austin
The median ml research engineer salary in Austin, TX is $221,000 for mid-level professionals, which is 5% below 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 ml research engineers in Austin can expect to earn between $140,000 and $194,000 (about $80.29/hour), while senior professionals with 6+ years of experience earn up to $378,000 ($378K annually, or about $181.73/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: ML Research Engineer Salary in Austin
What is the average ML Research Engineer salary in Austin?+
The average ML Research Engineer salary in Austin is $221,000 for a mid-level professional (3–5 years of experience). Entry-level pay starts around $167,000 and senior-level pay reaches $308,000.
How much does an entry-level ml research engineer make in Austin?+
Entry-level ml research engineers in Austin earn between $140,000 and $194,000, with a median of $167,000 per year (about $80.29/hour).
What is the hourly rate for a ML Research Engineer in Austin?+
Based on a 2,080-hour work year, a ML Research Engineer in Austin earns roughly $80.29/hour at entry-level, $106.25/hour at mid-level, and $148.08/hour at senior-level.
Is the ML Research Engineer salary in Austin higher than the US average?+
ML Research Engineer salaries in Austin are about 5% below the US national median. The lower cost of living often makes take-home buying power competitive.
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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