Machine Learning Engineer vs Software Engineer salary
In United Kingdom, a software engineer earns about 17% more than a machine learning engineer — $126,374 vs $108,034 per year.
Showing amounts in USD (USD default; source data is GBP). FX as of Mon, 13 Jul 2026 00:02:31 +0000. Convert currencies
Technology
Machine Learning Engineer$108,034/yr
- Monthly
- $8,969
- Hourly
- $52
- Range
- $64,258–$161,448
- 10-yr outlook
- +40%
Pays more
Technology
Software Engineer$126,374/yr
- Monthly
- $10,576
- Hourly
- $60
- Range
- $80,858–$181,930
- 10-yr outlook
- +17%
Pay range, side by side
| Percentile | Machine Learning Engineer | Software Engineer |
|---|---|---|
| Entry (10th) | $64,258 | $80,858 |
| 25th | $86,213 | $103,616 |
| Median | $108,034 | $126,374 |
| 75th | $134,808 | $154,219 |
| Senior (90th) | $161,448 | $181,930 |
National United Kingdom figures in GBP. 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 United Kingdom?
- A software engineer earns more, at about £94,400 per year vs £80,700 for a machine learning engineer — roughly 17% (£13,700) more.
- What is the salary range for these roles in United Kingdom?
- A machine learning engineer typically earns £48,000–£120,600, while a software engineer earns £60,400–£135,900 per year.
- How much do these jobs pay per month in United Kingdom?
- On a monthly basis before tax, a machine learning engineer averages about £6,700 and a software engineer about £7,900.
- How do entry-level salaries compare?
- At the 10th percentile in United Kingdom, a machine learning engineer earns about £48,000 while a software engineer earns about £60,400 per year.
- How do senior-level salaries compare?
- At the 90th percentile in United Kingdom, a machine learning engineer earns about £120,600 while a software engineer earns about £135,900 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.