Machine Learning Engineer Salary in Sacramento, California
The median machine learning engineer salary in Sacramento, CA is $176,890 per year, which is 33.0% above the national median and 13.1% below the California state average.
Machine Learning Engineer Pay in Sacramento: What to Expect (2026)
Sacramento offers a median machine learning engineer salary of $176,890, which is $26,600 below the California state average of $203,490. Compared to the national median of $133,000, Sacramento pays above average for this role.
However, Sacramento's cost of living index is 118%, significantly above the national average. After adjusting for local costs, the $176,890 salary has an effective purchasing power of approximately $149,907. Housing, transportation, and food costs in Sacramento should be factored into any relocation or job-change decision.
The salary range for machine learning engineers in Sacramento spans from $109,060 at the 10th percentile to $272,650 at the 90th percentile — a $163,590 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $117,040, while senior machine learning engineers with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $255,360. As a major metro area with a population of 524,943, Sacramento typically offers more job opportunities and employer competition, which can drive salaries higher.
Machine Learning Engineer Salary in Sacramento by Experience
In Sacramento, an entry-level machine learning engineer earns around $117,040, while experienced professionals earn up to $255,360 per year. The local cost of living index is 118% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Sacramento, CA
| Percentile | Sacramento |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $109,060 |
| 25th Percentile | $143,640 |
| Median (50th) | $176,890 |
| 75th Percentile | $223,440 |
| 90th Percentile | $272,650 |
Machine Learning Engineer Salary in Other California Cities
How to Become a Machine Learning Engineer in Sacramento
Education
Most machine learning engineer positions require a master's degree. Sacramento and the surrounding California area have institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook
Nationally, machine learning engineer employment is projected to grow 40% over the next decade (much faster than average). Demand in Sacramento may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Machine Learning Engineer Jobs in Sacramento
Browse open machine learning engineer positions in Sacramento, CA: