Data Engineer vs Machine Learning Engineer salary
In India, a machine learning engineer earns about 14% more than a data engineer — $38,013 vs $33,301 per year.
Showing amounts in USD (USD default; source data is INR). FX as of Mon, 13 Jul 2026 00:02:31 +0000. Convert currencies
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Technology
Machine Learning Engineer$38,013/yr
- Monthly
- $3,168
- Hourly
- $18
- Range
- $22,618–$56,830
- 10-yr outlook
- +40%
Pay range, side by side
| Percentile | Data Engineer | Machine Learning Engineer |
|---|---|---|
| Entry (10th) | $21,313 | $22,618 |
| 25th | $27,307 | $30,315 |
| Median | $33,301 | $38,013 |
| 75th | $40,627 | $47,421 |
| Senior (90th) | $47,953 | $56,830 |
National India figures in INR. Individual pay varies with experience, employer, and location.
More Technology comparisons
Frequently asked questions
- Does a data engineer or machine learning engineer earn more in India?
- A machine learning engineer earns more, at about ₹36,30,000 per year vs ₹31,80,000 for a data engineer — roughly 14% (₹4,50,000) more.
- What is the salary range for these roles in India?
- A data engineer typically earns ₹20,35,200–₹45,79,200, while a machine learning engineer earns ₹21,59,900–₹54,26,900 per year.
- How much do these jobs pay per month in India?
- On a monthly basis before tax, a data engineer averages about ₹2,65,000 and a machine learning engineer about ₹3,02,500.
- How do entry-level salaries compare?
- At the 10th percentile in India, a data engineer earns about ₹20,35,200 while a machine learning engineer earns about ₹21,59,900 per year.
- How do senior-level salaries compare?
- At the 90th percentile in India, a data engineer earns about ₹45,79,200 while a machine learning engineer earns about ₹54,26,900 per year.
- Are data engineer and machine learning engineer similar careers?
- Both roles sit in the Technology category on Pay by Role, which is why we compare them head-to-head. Day-to-day work still differs — review each job page for skills and outlook.