Federal government, lobbying, defense, professional services. Here's how Machine Learning Engineers in Washington get paid in 2026.
How pay scales with career stage in the Washington metro market.
| Experience | Median 2026 | 25th % | 75th % |
|---|---|---|---|
| Entry (0–1 yr) | $177,100 | $134,600 | $230,200 |
| Junior (2–4 yrs) | $220,100 | $167,300 | $286,100 |
| Mid-Level (5–9 yrs) | $253,000 | $192,300 | $328,900 |
| Senior (10–14 yrs) | $303,600 | $230,700 | $394,600 |
| Veteran (15+ yrs) | $344,000 | $261,500 | $447,300 |
Highest-paying metros for Machine Learning Engineers — useful if you're weighing a relocation.
Top occupations by median pay across the Washington metro economy.
The average Machine Learning Engineer salary in the Washington metro is $253,000 per year as of 2026, with a typical range of $192,300 to $328,900 (25th–75th percentile). Top earners (90th percentile) make $417,400 or more.
Yes — Washington pays +0% relative to the Washington DC 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.
Washington vs. national: +40%. That puts Washington among the stronger US markets for Machine Learning Engineers — though cost of living in Washington is also typically elevated.
In Washington, the median Machine Learning Engineer salary of $253,000 typically corresponds to 5–9 years of experience (mid-level). Entry-level Machine Learning Engineers in Washington start around $177,100, while seniors (10+ years) reach $303,600 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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