Biotech, defense, military, perfect weather premium. Here's how Machine Learning Engineers in San Diego get paid in 2026.
How pay scales with career stage in the San Diego metro market.
| Experience | Median 2026 | 25th % | 75th % |
|---|---|---|---|
| Entry (0–1 yr) | $173,300 | $131,700 | $225,200 |
| Junior (2–4 yrs) | $215,400 | $163,700 | $279,900 |
| Mid-Level (5–9 yrs) | $247,600 | $188,200 | $321,800 |
| Senior (10–14 yrs) | $297,100 | $225,800 | $386,100 |
| Veteran (15+ yrs) | $336,700 | $255,900 | $437,600 |
Highest-paying metros for Machine Learning Engineers — useful if you're weighing a relocation.
Top occupations by median pay across the San Diego metro economy.
The average Machine Learning Engineer salary in the San Diego metro is $247,600 per year as of 2026, with a typical range of $188,200 to $321,800 (25th–75th percentile). Top earners (90th percentile) make $408,500 or more.
Yes — San Diego pays -17% relative to the California 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.
San Diego vs. national: +37%. That puts San Diego among the stronger US markets for Machine Learning Engineers — though cost of living in San Diego is also typically elevated.
In San Diego, the median Machine Learning Engineer salary of $247,600 typically corresponds to 5–9 years of experience (mid-level). Entry-level Machine Learning Engineers in San Diego start around $173,300, while seniors (10+ years) reach $297,100 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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