Backend Developer vs Machine Learning Engineer: Which Pays More?
Side-by-side salary comparison by city, experience level, and career growth outlook. Data reflects current market rates.
Backend Developer
Build server-side APIs, databases, and business logic.
Machine Learning Engineer
Design and deploy machine learning models to production systems.
Backend Developer earns more on average — the national median is $15,750/year (13%) higher than a Machine Learning Engineer. However, salaries vary significantly by city, employer, and experience level — see the city-by-city breakdown below.
Backend Developer vs Machine Learning Engineer — Salary by City
National median figures in USD across top cities.
| City | Backend Developer | Machine Learning Engineer | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| San Francisco, CA | $194,530 | $173,682 | Backend +$20,848 |
| New York, NY | $167,456 | $135,980 | Backend +$31,476 |
| Seattle, WA | $193,111 | $174,792 | Backend +$18,319 |
| Austin, TX | $151,541 | $134,974 | Backend +$16,567 |
| Chicago, IL | $146,538 | $129,773 | Backend +$16,765 |
| Boston, MA | $173,670 | $157,928 | Backend +$15,742 |
| London, UK | £73,942 | £78,216 | Backend $4,274 |
| Toronto, Canada | CA$126,152 | CA$134,265 | Backend $8,113 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Does a Backend Developer or Machine Learning Engineer earn more?+
A Backend Developer earns more on average. The national median salary for a Backend Developer is $135,980/year, compared to $120,230/year for a Machine Learning Engineer — a difference of $15,750 (13%).
Which has better career growth — Backend Developer or Machine Learning Engineer?+
Backend Developer roles are growing at 22% YoY while Machine Learning Engineer demand is growing at 45% YoY. Machine Learning Engineer has stronger near-term demand growth.
Can you switch from Backend Developer to Machine Learning Engineer?+
Yes. Many professionals transition between these roles, especially since both are in the same category. Shared skills include: Python.
Which is harder to automate — Backend Developer or Machine Learning Engineer?+
Machine Learning Engineer has a lower AI automation risk (22% vs 45%). Based on Oxford Martin School and McKinsey 2023 analysis.