Outdoor lifestyle, aerospace, tech relocation magnet. Here's how Machine Learning Engineers in Denver get paid in 2026.
How pay scales with career stage in the Denver metro market.
| Experience | Median 2026 | 25th % | 75th % |
|---|---|---|---|
| Entry (0–1 yr) | $149,000 | $113,200 | $193,600 |
| Junior (2–4 yrs) | $185,200 | $140,700 | $240,700 |
| Mid-Level (5–9 yrs) | $212,900 | $161,800 | $276,700 |
| Senior (10–14 yrs) | $255,400 | $194,100 | $332,000 |
| Veteran (15+ yrs) | $289,500 | $220,000 | $376,300 |
Highest-paying metros for Machine Learning Engineers — useful if you're weighing a relocation.
Top occupations by median pay across the Denver metro economy.
The average Machine Learning Engineer salary in the Denver metro is $212,900 per year as of 2026, with a typical range of $161,800 to $276,700 (25th–75th percentile). Top earners (90th percentile) make $351,200 or more.
Yes — Denver pays +1% relative to the Colorado 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.
Denver vs. national: +18%. That puts Denver among the stronger US markets for Machine Learning Engineers — though cost of living in Denver is also typically elevated.
In Denver, the median Machine Learning Engineer salary of $212,900 typically corresponds to 5–9 years of experience (mid-level). Entry-level Machine Learning Engineers in Denver start around $149,000, while seniors (10+ years) reach $255,400 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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