ML Research Engineer Salary in Philadelphia
2026 compensation data for ML Research Engineer positions in Philadelphia, PA. Ranges from $133,000 (entry-level) to $357,000 (senior). Median: $209,000.
Median (Mid)
$209,000
$100.48/hr
vs National
-5%
US: $219,000
COL Index
110
vs US avg = 100
Senior Max
$357,000
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) | $133,000 | $158,000 | $184,000 | $75.96/hr |
| Mid-Level (3–5 yrs) | $173,000 | $209,000 | $245,000 | $100.48/hr |
| Senior (6+ yrs) | $224,000 | $291,000 | $357,000 | $139.9/hr |
What Your Salary Is Really Worth in Philadelphia
A mid-level ml research engineer earning $209,000 in Philadelphia has the same buying power as $190,000 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 Philadelphia
The median ml research engineer salary in Philadelphia, PA is $209,000 for mid-level professionals, which is 5% below the national median. With a cost of living index of 110 (national average = 100), Philadelphia offers a moderate cost of living with competitive salaries.
Entry-level ml research engineers in Philadelphia can expect to earn between $133,000 and $184,000 (about $75.96/hour), while senior professionals with 6+ years of experience earn up to $357,000 ($357K annually, or about $171.63/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 Philadelphia.
Frequently Asked Questions: ML Research Engineer Salary in Philadelphia
What is the average ML Research Engineer salary in Philadelphia?+
The average ML Research Engineer salary in Philadelphia is $209,000 for a mid-level professional (3–5 years of experience). Entry-level pay starts around $158,000 and senior-level pay reaches $291,000.
How much does an entry-level ml research engineer make in Philadelphia?+
Entry-level ml research engineers in Philadelphia earn between $133,000 and $184,000, with a median of $158,000 per year (about $75.96/hour).
What is the hourly rate for a ML Research Engineer in Philadelphia?+
Based on a 2,080-hour work year, a ML Research Engineer in Philadelphia earns roughly $75.96/hour at entry-level, $100.48/hour at mid-level, and $139.9/hour at senior-level.
Is the ML Research Engineer salary in Philadelphia higher than the US average?+
ML Research Engineer salaries in Philadelphia 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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