Machine Learning Engineer Salary in Chicago, Illinois
The median machine learning engineer salary in Chicago, IL is $148,960 per year, which is 12.0% above the national median and 12.0% above the Illinois state average.
Machine Learning Engineer Pay in Chicago: What to Expect (2026)
Chicago offers a median machine learning engineer salary of $148,960, which is $15,960 above the Illinois state average of $133,000. Compared to the national median of $133,000, Chicago pays above average for this role.
Chicago's cost of living is 107% of the national average, meaning salary figures here closely reflect actual purchasing power. This makes direct comparisons to other cities straightforward.
The salary range for machine learning engineers in Chicago spans from $91,840 at the 10th percentile to $229,600 at the 90th percentile — a $137,760 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $98,560, while senior machine learning engineers with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $215,040. As a major metro area with a population of 2,693,976, Chicago typically offers more job opportunities and employer competition, which can drive salaries higher.
Machine Learning Engineer Salary in Chicago by Experience
In Chicago, an entry-level machine learning engineer earns around $98,560, while experienced professionals earn up to $215,040 per year. The local cost of living index is 107% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Chicago, IL
| Percentile | Chicago |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $91,840 |
| 25th Percentile | $120,960 |
| Median (50th) | $148,960 |
| 75th Percentile | $188,160 |
| 90th Percentile | $229,600 |
Machine Learning Engineer Salary in Other Illinois Cities
How to Become a Machine Learning Engineer in Chicago
Education
Most machine learning engineer positions require a master's degree. Chicago and the surrounding Illinois 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 Chicago may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Machine Learning Engineer Jobs in Chicago
Browse open machine learning engineer positions in Chicago, IL: