ML Research Engineer Salary in Indianapolis
2026 compensation data for ML Research Engineer positions in Indianapolis, IN. Ranges from $120,000 (entry-level) to $322,000 (senior). Median: $189,000.
Median (Mid)
$189,000
$90.87/hr
vs National
-5%
US: $198,000
COL Index
95
vs US avg = 100
Senior Max
$322,000
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) | $120,000 | $143,000 | $166,000 | $68.75/hr |
| Mid-Level (3–5 yrs) | $156,000 | $189,000 | $221,000 | $90.87/hr |
| Senior (6+ yrs) | $202,000 | $262,000 | $322,000 | $125.96/hr |
What Your Salary Is Really Worth in Indianapolis
A mid-level ml research engineer earning $189,000 in Indianapolis has the same buying power as $199,000 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 Indianapolis
The median ml research engineer salary in Indianapolis, IN is $189,000 for mid-level professionals, which is 5% below the national median. With a cost of living index of 95 (national average = 100), Indianapolis offers an affordable cost of living, making these salaries stretch further.
Entry-level ml research engineers in Indianapolis can expect to earn between $120,000 and $166,000 (about $68.75/hour), while senior professionals with 6+ years of experience earn up to $322,000 ($322K annually, or about $154.81/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 Indianapolis.
Frequently Asked Questions: ML Research Engineer Salary in Indianapolis
What is the average ML Research Engineer salary in Indianapolis?+
The average ML Research Engineer salary in Indianapolis is $189,000 for a mid-level professional (3–5 years of experience). Entry-level pay starts around $143,000 and senior-level pay reaches $262,000.
How much does an entry-level ml research engineer make in Indianapolis?+
Entry-level ml research engineers in Indianapolis earn between $120,000 and $166,000, with a median of $143,000 per year (about $68.75/hour).
What is the hourly rate for a ML Research Engineer in Indianapolis?+
Based on a 2,080-hour work year, a ML Research Engineer in Indianapolis earns roughly $68.75/hour at entry-level, $90.87/hour at mid-level, and $125.96/hour at senior-level.
Is the ML Research Engineer salary in Indianapolis higher than the US average?+
ML Research Engineer salaries in Indianapolis 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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