Technology New Jersey (NJ) Rank #7 of 50

Machine Learning Engineer Salary in New Jersey

The median machine learning engineer salary in New Jersey is $160,930 per year, which is 21.0% above the national median of $133,000.

Median Salary
$160,930
vs National
+$27,930
State Rank
#7 of 50
Cost of Living
115%

Machine Learning Engineer Salary Overview in New Jersey (2026)

New Jersey ranks #7 out of 50 states for machine learning engineer compensation. This places New Jersey in the top tier nationally, making it one of the best states for machine learning engineers seeking high pay. At $160,930 per year, machine learning engineers in New Jersey earn $27,930 more than the national median of $133,000.

It's worth noting that New Jersey's cost of living is 115% of the national average, which reduces the real purchasing power of the $160,930 salary. After adjusting for cost of living, the effective salary is closer to $139,939.

The salary spread in New Jersey is significant: machine learning engineers at the 10th percentile earn $99,220, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $248,050 — a $148,830 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in New Jersey for this role is Jersey City, where the median reaches $178,220.

Nationally, machine learning engineer employment is projected to grow 40% over the next decade (much faster than average). This strong growth suggests increasing demand and competitive salaries in New Jersey and beyond.

Machine Learning Engineer Salary in New Jersey by Experience

In New Jersey, an entry-level machine learning engineer earns around $106,480, while experienced professionals earn up to $232,320 per year. The cost of living index in New Jersey is 115% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$106,480
+$18,480 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$163,350
+$28,350 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$232,320
+$40,320 vs national

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Salary Percentiles in New Jersey

Percentile NJ Salary
10th Percentile $99,220
25th Percentile $130,680
Median (50th) $160,930
75th Percentile $203,280
90th Percentile $248,050

Machine Learning Engineer Salary by City in New Jersey

The largest employment areas for machine learning engineers in New Jersey include Newark, Jersey City, Paterson, and Elizabeth. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.

How to Become a Machine Learning Engineer in New Jersey

Education

Most machine learning engineer positions require a master's degree. New Jersey has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.

Key Skills

PythonTensorFlow/PyTorchMLOpsStatisticsDeep LearningData Engineering

Job Outlook in New Jersey

Nationally, machine learning engineer employment is projected to grow 40% over the next decade (much faster than average). New Jersey's demand may vary based on local industry trends.

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Data shows Machine Learning Engineers who negotiate earn 7–15% more. A single negotiation could add $71,390 over your career trajectory.

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Frequently Asked Questions: Machine Learning Engineer Salary in New Jersey

How much does a Machine Learning Engineer make in New Jersey? ▼
The median machine learning engineer salary in New Jersey is $160,930 per year, which is 21.0% above the national median of $133,000. Salaries range from $99,220 (10th percentile) to $248,050 (90th percentile).
How much does a Machine Learning Engineer make per hour in New Jersey? ▼
Based on the median annual salary of $160,930, a machine learning engineer in New Jersey earns approximately $77 per hour assuming a standard 2,080-hour work year.
Is New Jersey a good state for machine learning engineers? ▼
New Jersey ranks #7 out of 50 states for machine learning engineer pay. The cost of living index is 115% of the national average. Entry-level machine learning engineers earn $106,480, while senior professionals earn $232,320.
How does New Jersey compare to other states for machine learning engineer salary? ▼
The highest paying state for machine learning engineers is Hawaii at $219,450. New Jersey's median of $160,930 ranks #7 nationally. Nearby-ranked states include Washington ($168,910) and Alaska ($160,930).
What is the entry-level machine learning engineer salary in New Jersey? ▼
An entry-level machine learning engineer in New Jersey earns approximately $106,480 per year. With 3-7 years of experience, pay increases to around $163,350. Senior-level professionals with 8+ years earn up to $232,320.
What city in New Jersey pays machine learning engineers the most? ▼
Jersey City is the highest paying city in New Jersey for machine learning engineers, with a median salary of $178,220. Other cities include Newark and Paterson.