Full Stack 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.
Full Stack Developer
Build both frontend and backend of web applications.
Machine Learning Engineer
Design and deploy machine learning models to production systems.
Full Stack 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.
Full Stack Developer vs Machine Learning Engineer — Salary by City
National median figures in USD across top cities.
| City | Full Stack Developer | Machine Learning Engineer | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| San Francisco, CA | $198,461 | $173,682 | Full +$24,779 |
| New York, NY | $159,461 | $135,980 | Full +$23,481 |
| Seattle, WA | $190,473 | $174,792 | Full +$15,681 |
| Austin, TX | $150,833 | $134,974 | Full +$15,859 |
| Chicago, IL | $146,057 | $129,773 | Full +$16,284 |
| Boston, MA | $175,364 | $157,928 | Full +$17,436 |
| London, UK | £73,942 | £78,216 | Full $4,274 |
| Toronto, Canada | CA$126,152 | CA$134,265 | Full $8,113 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Does a Full Stack Developer or Machine Learning Engineer earn more?+
A Full Stack Developer earns more on average. The national median salary for a Full Stack 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 — Full Stack Developer or Machine Learning Engineer?+
Full Stack Developer roles are growing at 24% YoY while Machine Learning Engineer demand is growing at 45% YoY. Machine Learning Engineer has stronger near-term demand growth.
Can you switch from Full Stack 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 — Full Stack Developer or Machine Learning Engineer?+
Machine Learning Engineer has a lower AI automation risk (22% vs 46%). Based on Oxford Martin School and McKinsey 2023 analysis.