Pay by Role
United States · Salary comparison

Backend Developer vs Machine Learning Engineer salary

In United States, a machine learning engineer earns about 22% more than a backend developer — $180,000 vs $148,000 per year.

Showing amounts in USD (USD default). FX as of Mon, 13 Jul 2026 00:02:31 +0000. Convert currencies

Technology
Backend Developer
$148,000/yr
Monthly
$12,300
Hourly
$71
Range
$94,700–$213,100
10-yr outlook
+16%
Pays more
Technology
Machine Learning Engineer
$180,000/yr
Monthly
$15,000
Hourly
$87
Range
$107,100–$269,100
10-yr outlook
+40%

Pay range, side by side

PercentileBackend DeveloperMachine Learning Engineer
Entry (10th)$94,700$107,100
25th$121,400$143,600
Median$148,000$180,000
75th$180,600$224,600
Senior (90th)$213,100$269,100

National United States figures in USD. Individual pay varies with experience, employer, and location.

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Frequently asked questions

Does a backend developer or machine learning engineer earn more in United States?
A machine learning engineer earns more, at about $180,000 per year vs $148,000 for a backend developer — roughly 22% ($32,000) more.
What is the salary range for these roles in United States?
A backend developer typically earns $94,700–$213,100, while a machine learning engineer earns $107,100–$269,100 per year.
How much do these jobs pay per month in United States?
On a monthly basis before tax, a backend developer averages about $12,300 and a machine learning engineer about $15,000.
How do entry-level salaries compare?
At the 10th percentile in United States, a backend developer earns about $94,700 while a machine learning engineer earns about $107,100 per year.
How do senior-level salaries compare?
At the 90th percentile in United States, a backend developer earns about $213,100 while a machine learning engineer earns about $269,100 per year.
Are backend developer 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.