Biotech, top universities, finance — knowledge economy capital. Here's how Machine Learning Engineers in Boston get paid in 2026.
How pay scales with career stage in the Boston metro market.
| Experience | Median 2026 | 25th % | 75th % |
|---|---|---|---|
| Entry (0–1 yr) | $169,700 | $129,000 | $220,700 |
| Junior (2–4 yrs) | $210,900 | $160,300 | $274,300 |
| Mid-Level (5–9 yrs) | $242,500 | $184,300 | $315,300 |
| Senior (10–14 yrs) | $291,000 | $221,100 | $378,300 |
| Veteran (15+ yrs) | $329,800 | $250,600 | $428,800 |
Highest-paying metros for Machine Learning Engineers — useful if you're weighing a relocation.
Top occupations by median pay across the Boston metro economy.
The average Machine Learning Engineer salary in the Boston metro is $242,500 per year as of 2026, with a typical range of $184,300 to $315,300 (25th–75th percentile). Top earners (90th percentile) make $400,100 or more.
Yes — Boston pays -1% relative to the Massachusetts state median for Machine Learning Engineers. Major metros typically concentrate higher-paying employers and command a wage premium over rural and small-city areas in the same state.
Boston vs. national: +34%. That puts Boston among the stronger US markets for Machine Learning Engineers — though cost of living in Boston is also typically elevated.
In Boston, the median Machine Learning Engineer salary of $242,500 typically corresponds to 5–9 years of experience (mid-level). Entry-level Machine Learning Engineers in Boston start around $169,700, while seniors (10+ years) reach $291,000 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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