Machine Learning Engineer Salary in Chicago
Median salary for a Machine Learning Engineer in Chicago is $150k per year. Hire remotely via KiteHR and save 52% — or $78k annually.
Local Median
$150k
Remote Median
$72k
You Save
52%
Annual Savings
$78k
Local vs. Remote Salary Comparison
Salary Percentile Breakdown
| Percentile | Local (Chicago) | Remote |
|---|---|---|
| P25 — Entry level | $120k | $65k |
| P50 — Median | $150k | $72k |
| P75 — Senior / Lead | $180k | $80k |
Total Employer Cost
Salary + estimated benefits, payroll taxes, and overhead (30% local / 15% remote).
In-person in Chicago
$195k
/year total cost
Remote via KiteHR
$83k
/year total cost
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average Machine Learning Engineer salary in Chicago?
The median Machine Learning Engineer salary in Chicago is $150k per year. Entry-level roles start around $120k, while senior or lead-level Machine Learning Engineers can earn up to $180k. Data reflects 2025 market rates sourced from BLS OES, DOL H-1B LCA disclosures, and KiteHR market research.
How much can I save hiring a remote Machine Learning Engineer?
Hiring a remote Machine Learning Engineer vs. a Chicago-based hire saves approximately 52% — or $78k per year. Remote Engineering professionals typically earn $72k median, compared to the local Chicago rate of $150k.
Is it common to hire a remote Machine Learning Engineer?
Yes — Engineering roles like Machine Learning Engineer have a high degree of remote compatibility. Latin America, Eastern Europe, and Southeast Asia have deep talent pools for this category. KiteHR can help you post the role, screen candidates, and manage the hiring pipeline entirely online.
What is the total employer cost for a Machine Learning Engineer in Chicago?
The total employer cost — including salary, payroll taxes, health benefits, and overhead — for a Machine Learning Engineer in Chicago is approximately $195k per year. Hiring remote reduces this to roughly $83k, saving $112k annually.
Savings Calculator
How many Machine Learning Engineers are you hiring in Chicago?
Annual savings with remote team
$234k
$78k per role × 3 hires
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- Demand in Chicago
- high
- Category
- Engineering
- Data year
- 2025
- Currency
- USD
Other Engineering Roles in Chicago
Data sourced from BLS OES, DOL H-1B LCA disclosures, and KiteHR market research. Figures are estimates and may vary by company, seniority, and experience level.
Machine Learning Engineer Salary in Other Cities
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