Machine Learning Engineer Salary in Detroit, Michigan
The median machine learning engineer salary in Detroit, MI is $117,040 per year, which is 12% below the national median and 2.2% below the Michigan state average.
Machine Learning Engineer Pay in Detroit: What to Expect (2026)
Detroit offers a median machine learning engineer salary of $117,040, which is $2,660 below the Michigan state average of $119,700. Compared to the national median of $133,000, Detroit pays below the national benchmark for this role.
One of Detroit's biggest advantages is its low cost of living at 88% of the national average. This means the $117,040 salary stretches further here — equivalent to roughly $133,000 in an average-cost city. This makes Detroit an attractive option for machine learning engineers seeking strong real-dollar compensation.
The salary range for machine learning engineers in Detroit spans from $72,160 at the 10th percentile to $180,400 at the 90th percentile — a $108,240 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $77,440, while senior machine learning engineers with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $168,960. As a major metro area with a population of 639,111, Detroit typically offers more job opportunities and employer competition, which can drive salaries higher.
Machine Learning Engineer Salary in Detroit by Experience
In Detroit, an entry-level machine learning engineer earns around $77,440, while experienced professionals earn up to $168,960 per year. The local cost of living index is 88% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Detroit, MI
| Percentile | Detroit |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $72,160 |
| 25th Percentile | $95,040 |
| Median (50th) | $117,040 |
| 75th Percentile | $147,840 |
| 90th Percentile | $180,400 |
Machine Learning Engineer Salary in Other Michigan Cities
How to Become a Machine Learning Engineer in Detroit
Education
Most machine learning engineer positions require a master's degree. Detroit and the surrounding Michigan 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 Detroit may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Machine Learning Engineer Jobs in Detroit
Browse open machine learning engineer positions in Detroit, MI: