ML Research Engineer Salary in Memphis
2026 compensation data for ML Research Engineer positions in Memphis, TN. Ranges from $114,000 (entry-level) to $308,000 (senior). Median: $180,000.
Median (Mid)
$180,000
$86.54/hr
vs National
-5%
US: $189,000
COL Index
88
vs US avg = 100
Senior Max
$308,000
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) | $114,000 | $136,000 | $158,000 | $65.38/hr |
| Mid-Level (3–5 yrs) | $150,000 | $180,000 | $211,000 | $86.54/hr |
| Senior (6+ yrs) | $194,000 | $251,000 | $308,000 | $120.67/hr |
What Your Salary Is Really Worth in Memphis
A mid-level ml research engineer earning $180,000 in Memphis has the same buying power as $205,000 in an average US city, after adjusting for the local cost of living (COL index 88).
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 Memphis
The median ml research engineer salary in Memphis, TN is $180,000 for mid-level professionals, which is 5% below the national median. With a cost of living index of 88 (national average = 100), Memphis offers an affordable cost of living, making these salaries stretch further.
Entry-level ml research engineers in Memphis can expect to earn between $114,000 and $158,000 (about $65.38/hour), while senior professionals with 6+ years of experience earn up to $308,000 ($308K annually, or about $148.08/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 Memphis.
Frequently Asked Questions: ML Research Engineer Salary in Memphis
What is the average ML Research Engineer salary in Memphis?+
The average ML Research Engineer salary in Memphis is $180,000 for a mid-level professional (3–5 years of experience). Entry-level pay starts around $136,000 and senior-level pay reaches $251,000.
How much does an entry-level ml research engineer make in Memphis?+
Entry-level ml research engineers in Memphis earn between $114,000 and $158,000, with a median of $136,000 per year (about $65.38/hour).
What is the hourly rate for a ML Research Engineer in Memphis?+
Based on a 2,080-hour work year, a ML Research Engineer in Memphis earns roughly $65.38/hour at entry-level, $86.54/hour at mid-level, and $120.67/hour at senior-level.
Is the ML Research Engineer salary in Memphis higher than the US average?+
ML Research Engineer salaries in Memphis 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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