Machine Learning Engineer vs Software Engineer salary
In India, a machine learning engineer earns about 62% more than a software engineer — $38,013 vs $23,457 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 | Machine Learning Engineer | Software Engineer |
|---|---|---|
| Entry (10th) | $22,618 | $15,013 |
| 25th | $30,315 | $19,235 |
| Median | $38,013 | $23,457 |
| 75th | $47,421 | $28,618 |
| Senior (90th) | $56,830 | $33,778 |
National India figures in INR. Individual pay varies with experience, employer, and location.
More Technology comparisons
Frequently asked questions
- Does a machine learning engineer or software engineer earn more in India?
- A machine learning engineer earns more, at about ₹36,30,000 per year vs ₹22,40,000 for a software engineer — roughly 62% (₹13,90,000) more.
- What is the salary range for these roles in India?
- A machine learning engineer typically earns ₹21,59,900–₹54,26,900, while a software engineer earns ₹14,33,600–₹32,25,600 per year.
- How much do these jobs pay per month in India?
- On a monthly basis before tax, a machine learning engineer averages about ₹3,02,500 and a software engineer about ₹1,86,700.
- How do entry-level salaries compare?
- At the 10th percentile in India, a machine learning engineer earns about ₹21,59,900 while a software engineer earns about ₹14,33,600 per year.
- How do senior-level salaries compare?
- At the 90th percentile in India, a machine learning engineer earns about ₹54,26,900 while a software engineer earns about ₹32,25,600 per year.
- Are machine learning engineer and software 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.