ML Research Engineer Salary in Phoenix
2026 compensation data for ML Research Engineer positions in Phoenix, AZ. Ranges from $124,000 (entry-level) to $333,000 (senior). Median: $195,000.
Median (Mid)
$195,000
$93.75/hr
vs National
-4%
US: $204,000
COL Index
100
vs US avg = 100
Senior Max
$333,000
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) | $124,000 | $147,000 | $171,000 | $70.67/hr |
| Mid-Level (3–5 yrs) | $162,000 | $195,000 | $228,000 | $93.75/hr |
| Senior (6+ yrs) | $209,000 | $271,000 | $333,000 | $130.29/hr |
What Your Salary Is Really Worth in Phoenix
A mid-level ml research engineer earning $195,000 in Phoenix has the same buying power as $195,000 in an average US city, after adjusting for the local cost of living (COL index 100).
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 Phoenix
The median ml research engineer salary in Phoenix, AZ is $195,000 for mid-level professionals, which is 4% below the national median. With a cost of living index of 100 (national average = 100), Phoenix offers an affordable cost of living, making these salaries stretch further.
Entry-level ml research engineers in Phoenix can expect to earn between $124,000 and $171,000 (about $70.67/hour), while senior professionals with 6+ years of experience earn up to $333,000 ($333K annually, or about $160.1/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 Phoenix.
Frequently Asked Questions: ML Research Engineer Salary in Phoenix
What is the average ML Research Engineer salary in Phoenix?+
The average ML Research Engineer salary in Phoenix is $195,000 for a mid-level professional (3–5 years of experience). Entry-level pay starts around $147,000 and senior-level pay reaches $271,000.
How much does an entry-level ml research engineer make in Phoenix?+
Entry-level ml research engineers in Phoenix earn between $124,000 and $171,000, with a median of $147,000 per year (about $70.67/hour).
What is the hourly rate for a ML Research Engineer in Phoenix?+
Based on a 2,080-hour work year, a ML Research Engineer in Phoenix earns roughly $70.67/hour at entry-level, $93.75/hour at mid-level, and $130.29/hour at senior-level.
Is the ML Research Engineer salary in Phoenix higher than the US average?+
ML Research Engineer salaries in Phoenix 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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