Machine Learning Engineer Salary in Boulder, Colorado
The median machine learning engineer salary in Boulder, CO is $180,880 per year, which is 36.0% above the national median and 20.4% above the Colorado state average.
Machine Learning Engineer Pay in Boulder: What to Expect (2026)
Boulder offers a median machine learning engineer salary of $180,880, which is $30,590 above the Colorado state average of $150,290. Compared to the national median of $133,000, Boulder pays above average for this role.
However, Boulder's cost of living index is 128%, significantly above the national average. After adjusting for local costs, the $180,880 salary has an effective purchasing power of approximately $141,313. Housing, transportation, and food costs in Boulder should be factored into any relocation or job-change decision.
The salary range for machine learning engineers in Boulder spans from $111,520 at the 10th percentile to $278,800 at the 90th percentile — a $167,280 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $119,680, while senior machine learning engineers with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $261,120. With a population of 105,673, Boulder is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.
Machine Learning Engineer Salary in Boulder by Experience
In Boulder, an entry-level machine learning engineer earns around $119,680, while experienced professionals earn up to $261,120 per year. The local cost of living index is 128% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Boulder, CO
| Percentile | Boulder |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $111,520 |
| 25th Percentile | $146,880 |
| Median (50th) | $180,880 |
| 75th Percentile | $228,480 |
| 90th Percentile | $278,800 |
Machine Learning Engineer Salary in Other Colorado Cities
How to Become a Machine Learning Engineer in Boulder
Education
Most machine learning engineer positions require a master's degree. Boulder and the surrounding Colorado 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 Boulder may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Machine Learning Engineer Jobs in Boulder
Browse open machine learning engineer positions in Boulder, CO: