Data Engineer Salary in Alabama
The median data engineer salary in Alabama is $102,500 per year, which is 18% below the national median of $125,000.
Data Engineer Salary Overview in Alabama (2026)
Alabama ranks #46 out of 50 states for data engineer compensation. Data Engineer salaries in Alabama are below the national median, though the lower cost of living can offset the difference. At $102,500 per year, data engineers in Alabama earn $22,500 less than the national median of $125,000.
A key advantage of working in Alabama is its below-average cost of living (87% of the national index). This means the $102,500 salary has the purchasing power of roughly $117,816 in an average-cost area.
The salary spread in Alabama is significant: data engineers at the 10th percentile earn $63,960, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $155,800 — a $91,840 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in Alabama for this role is Huntsville, where the median reaches $108,750.
Nationally, data engineer employment is projected to grow 28% over the next decade (much faster than average). This strong growth suggests increasing demand and competitive salaries in Alabama and beyond.
Data Engineer Salary in Alabama by Experience
In Alabama, an entry-level data engineer earns around $65,600, while experienced professionals earn up to $147,600 per year. The cost of living index in Alabama is 87% of the national average.
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View Offers You Qualify For →Salary Percentiles in Alabama
| Percentile | AL Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $63,960 |
| 25th Percentile | $82,000 |
| Median (50th) | $102,500 |
| 75th Percentile | $129,560 |
| 90th Percentile | $155,800 |
Data Engineer Salary by City in Alabama
The largest employment areas for data engineers in Alabama include Birmingham, Huntsville, Montgomery, and Mobile. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.
How to Become a Data Engineer in Alabama
Education
Most data engineer positions require a bachelor's degree. Alabama has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Alabama
Nationally, data engineer employment is projected to grow 28% over the next decade (much faster than average). Alabama's demand may vary based on local industry trends.
Negotiate Your Way to Senior Pay
Data shows Data Engineers who negotiate earn 7–15% more. A single negotiation could add $45,100 over your career trajectory.
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