ML Research Engineer Salary in Nashville
2026 compensation data for ML Research Engineer positions in Nashville, TN. Ranges from $129,000 (entry-level) to $347,000 (senior). Median: $203,000.
Median (Mid)
$203,000
$97.6/hr
vs National
-5%
US: $213,000
COL Index
105
vs US avg = 100
Senior Max
$347,000
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) | $129,000 | $153,000 | $178,000 | $73.56/hr |
| Mid-Level (3–5 yrs) | $168,000 | $203,000 | $238,000 | $97.6/hr |
| Senior (6+ yrs) | $218,000 | $282,000 | $347,000 | $135.58/hr |
What Your Salary Is Really Worth in Nashville
A mid-level ml research engineer earning $203,000 in Nashville has the same buying power as $193,000 in an average US city, after adjusting for the local cost of living (COL index 105).
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 Nashville
The median ml research engineer salary in Nashville, TN is $203,000 for mid-level professionals, which is 5% below the national median. With a cost of living index of 105 (national average = 100), Nashville offers an affordable cost of living, making these salaries stretch further.
Entry-level ml research engineers in Nashville can expect to earn between $129,000 and $178,000 (about $73.56/hour), while senior professionals with 6+ years of experience earn up to $347,000 ($347K annually, or about $166.83/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 Nashville.
Frequently Asked Questions: ML Research Engineer Salary in Nashville
What is the average ML Research Engineer salary in Nashville?+
The average ML Research Engineer salary in Nashville is $203,000 for a mid-level professional (3–5 years of experience). Entry-level pay starts around $153,000 and senior-level pay reaches $282,000.
How much does an entry-level ml research engineer make in Nashville?+
Entry-level ml research engineers in Nashville earn between $129,000 and $178,000, with a median of $153,000 per year (about $73.56/hour).
What is the hourly rate for a ML Research Engineer in Nashville?+
Based on a 2,080-hour work year, a ML Research Engineer in Nashville earns roughly $73.56/hour at entry-level, $97.6/hour at mid-level, and $135.58/hour at senior-level.
Is the ML Research Engineer salary in Nashville higher than the US average?+
ML Research Engineer salaries in Nashville 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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