Frontend 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.
Frontend Developer
Build user interfaces and web experiences using modern frameworks.
Machine Learning Engineer
Design and deploy machine learning models to production systems.
Frontend 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.
Frontend Developer vs Machine Learning Engineer — Salary by City
National median figures in USD across top cities.
| City | Frontend Developer | Machine Learning Engineer | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| San Francisco, CA | $192,184 | $173,682 | Frontend +$18,502 |
| New York, NY | $161,096 | $135,980 | Frontend +$25,116 |
| Seattle, WA | $196,031 | $174,792 | Frontend +$21,239 |
| Austin, TX | $148,203 | $134,974 | Frontend +$13,229 |
| Chicago, IL | $141,696 | $129,773 | Frontend +$11,923 |
| Boston, MA | $178,445 | $157,928 | Frontend +$20,517 |
| London, UK | £73,942 | £78,216 | Frontend $4,274 |
| Toronto, Canada | CA$126,152 | CA$134,265 | Frontend $8,113 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Does a Frontend Developer or Machine Learning Engineer earn more?+
A Frontend Developer earns more on average. The national median salary for a Frontend 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 — Frontend Developer or Machine Learning Engineer?+
Frontend 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 Frontend Developer to Machine Learning Engineer?+
Yes. Many professionals transition between these roles, especially since both are in the same category. Shared skills include: analytical thinking, communication, and industry knowledge.
Which is harder to automate — Frontend Developer or Machine Learning Engineer?+
Machine Learning Engineer has a lower AI automation risk (22% vs 44%). Based on Oxford Martin School and McKinsey 2023 analysis.