Entertainment, tech, aerospace — sprawling and high-paying. Here's how Data Engineers in Los Angeles get paid in 2026.
How pay scales with career stage in the Los Angeles metro market.
| Experience | Median 2026 | 25th % | 75th % |
|---|---|---|---|
| Entry (0–1 yr) | $142,600 | $108,400 | $185,400 |
| Junior (2–4 yrs) | $177,300 | $134,700 | $230,400 |
| Mid-Level (5–9 yrs) | $203,800 | $154,900 | $264,900 |
| Senior (10–14 yrs) | $244,500 | $185,800 | $317,800 |
| Veteran (15+ yrs) | $277,100 | $210,600 | $360,200 |
Highest-paying metros for Data Engineers — useful if you're weighing a relocation.
Top occupations by median pay across the Los Angeles metro economy.
The average Data Engineer salary in the Los Angeles metro is $203,800 per year as of 2026, with a typical range of $154,900 to $264,900 (25th–75th percentile). Top earners (90th percentile) make $336,300 or more.
Yes — Los Angeles pays -12% relative to the California state median for Data Engineers. Major metros typically concentrate higher-paying employers and command a wage premium over rural and small-city areas in the same state.
Los Angeles vs. national: +37%. That puts Los Angeles among the stronger US markets for Data Engineers — though cost of living in Los Angeles is also typically elevated.
In Los Angeles, the median Data Engineer salary of $203,800 typically corresponds to 5–9 years of experience (mid-level). Entry-level Data Engineers in Los Angeles start around $142,600, while seniors (10+ years) reach $244,500 or more.
Metro medians are useful benchmarks — but your exact number depends on your experience, education, and the specific employer. Run the free calculator for a personalized read.
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