ML Research Engineer Salary in Columbus
2026 compensation data for ML Research Engineer positions in Columbus, OH. Ranges from $121,000 (entry-level) to $326,000 (senior). Median: $191,000.
Median (Mid)
$191,000
$91.83/hr
vs National
-4%
US: $200,000
COL Index
95
vs US avg = 100
Senior Max
$326,000
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) | $121,000 | $144,000 | $167,000 | $69.23/hr |
| Mid-Level (3–5 yrs) | $158,000 | $191,000 | $223,000 | $91.83/hr |
| Senior (6+ yrs) | $205,000 | $265,000 | $326,000 | $127.4/hr |
What Your Salary Is Really Worth in Columbus
A mid-level ml research engineer earning $191,000 in Columbus has the same buying power as $201,000 in an average US city, after adjusting for the local cost of living (COL index 95).
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 Columbus
The median ml research engineer salary in Columbus, OH is $191,000 for mid-level professionals, which is 4% below the national median. With a cost of living index of 95 (national average = 100), Columbus offers an affordable cost of living, making these salaries stretch further.
Entry-level ml research engineers in Columbus can expect to earn between $121,000 and $167,000 (about $69.23/hour), while senior professionals with 6+ years of experience earn up to $326,000 ($326K annually, or about $156.73/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 Columbus.
Frequently Asked Questions: ML Research Engineer Salary in Columbus
What is the average ML Research Engineer salary in Columbus?+
The average ML Research Engineer salary in Columbus is $191,000 for a mid-level professional (3–5 years of experience). Entry-level pay starts around $144,000 and senior-level pay reaches $265,000.
How much does an entry-level ml research engineer make in Columbus?+
Entry-level ml research engineers in Columbus earn between $121,000 and $167,000, with a median of $144,000 per year (about $69.23/hour).
What is the hourly rate for a ML Research Engineer in Columbus?+
Based on a 2,080-hour work year, a ML Research Engineer in Columbus earns roughly $69.23/hour at entry-level, $91.83/hour at mid-level, and $127.4/hour at senior-level.
Is the ML Research Engineer salary in Columbus higher than the US average?+
ML Research Engineer salaries in Columbus are about 4% 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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