Pay by Role
United States · Salary comparison

Machine Learning Engineer vs Network Engineer salary

In United States, a machine learning engineer earns about 59% more than a network engineer $180,000 vs $113,000 per year.

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

Pays more
Technology
Machine Learning Engineer
$180,000/yr
Monthly
$15,000
Hourly
$87
Range
$107,100$269,100
10-yr outlook
+40%
Technology
Network Engineer
$113,000/yr
Monthly
$9,400
Hourly
$54
Range
$76,400$157,700
10-yr outlook
+5%

Pay range, side by side

PercentileMachine Learning EngineerNetwork Engineer
Entry (10th)$107,100$76,400
25th$143,600$94,700
Median$180,000$113,000
75th$224,600$135,400
Senior (90th)$269,100$157,700

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

More Technology comparisons

Frequently asked questions

Does a machine learning engineer or network engineer earn more in United States?
A machine learning engineer earns more, at about $180,000 per year vs $113,000 for a network engineer — roughly 59% ($67,000) more.
What is the salary range for these roles in United States?
A machine learning engineer typically earns $107,100–$269,100, while a network engineer earns $76,400–$157,700 per year.
How much do these jobs pay per month in United States?
On a monthly basis before tax, a machine learning engineer averages about $15,000 and a network engineer about $9,400.
How do entry-level salaries compare?
At the 10th percentile in United States, a machine learning engineer earns about $107,100 while a network engineer earns about $76,400 per year.
How do senior-level salaries compare?
At the 90th percentile in United States, a machine learning engineer earns about $269,100 while a network engineer earns about $157,700 per year.
Are machine learning engineer and network 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.