Machine Learning Engineer Salary in Charleston, South Carolina
The median machine learning engineer salary in Charleston, SC is $130,340 per year, which is 2% below the national median and 12.6% above the South Carolina state average.
Machine Learning Engineer Pay in Charleston: What to Expect (2026)
Charleston offers a median machine learning engineer salary of $130,340, which is $14,630 above the South Carolina state average of $115,710. Compared to the national median of $133,000, Charleston pays below the national benchmark for this role.
Charleston's cost of living is 100% 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 Charleston spans from $80,360 at the 10th percentile to $200,900 at the 90th percentile — a $120,540 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $86,240, while senior machine learning engineers with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $188,160. With a population of 150,227, Charleston is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.
Machine Learning Engineer Salary in Charleston by Experience
In Charleston, an entry-level machine learning engineer earns around $86,240, while experienced professionals earn up to $188,160 per year. The local cost of living index is 100% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Charleston, SC
| Percentile | Charleston |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $80,360 |
| 25th Percentile | $105,840 |
| Median (50th) | $130,340 |
| 75th Percentile | $164,640 |
| 90th Percentile | $200,900 |
Machine Learning Engineer Salary in Other South Carolina Cities
How to Become a Machine Learning Engineer in Charleston
Education
Most machine learning engineer positions require a master's degree. Charleston and the surrounding South Carolina 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 Charleston may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Machine Learning Engineer Jobs in Charleston
Browse open machine learning engineer positions in Charleston, SC: