ML Research Engineer Salary in Tampa
2026 compensation data for ML Research Engineer positions in Tampa, FL. Ranges from $125,000 (entry-level) to $336,000 (senior). Median: $197,000.
Median (Mid)
$197,000
$94.71/hr
vs National
-4%
US: $206,000
COL Index
100
vs US avg = 100
Senior Max
$336,000
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) | $125,000 | $149,000 | $173,000 | $71.63/hr |
| Mid-Level (3–5 yrs) | $163,000 | $197,000 | $230,000 | $94.71/hr |
| Senior (6+ yrs) | $211,000 | $274,000 | $336,000 | $131.73/hr |
What Your Salary Is Really Worth in Tampa
A mid-level ml research engineer earning $197,000 in Tampa has the same buying power as $197,000 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 Tampa
The median ml research engineer salary in Tampa, FL is $197,000 for mid-level professionals, which is 4% below the national median. With a cost of living index of 100 (national average = 100), Tampa offers an affordable cost of living, making these salaries stretch further.
Entry-level ml research engineers in Tampa can expect to earn between $125,000 and $173,000 (about $71.63/hour), while senior professionals with 6+ years of experience earn up to $336,000 ($336K annually, or about $161.54/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 Tampa.
Frequently Asked Questions: ML Research Engineer Salary in Tampa
What is the average ML Research Engineer salary in Tampa?+
The average ML Research Engineer salary in Tampa is $197,000 for a mid-level professional (3–5 years of experience). Entry-level pay starts around $149,000 and senior-level pay reaches $274,000.
How much does an entry-level ml research engineer make in Tampa?+
Entry-level ml research engineers in Tampa earn between $125,000 and $173,000, with a median of $149,000 per year (about $71.63/hour).
What is the hourly rate for a ML Research Engineer in Tampa?+
Based on a 2,080-hour work year, a ML Research Engineer in Tampa earns roughly $71.63/hour at entry-level, $94.71/hour at mid-level, and $131.73/hour at senior-level.
Is the ML Research Engineer salary in Tampa higher than the US average?+
ML Research Engineer salaries in Tampa 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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