Machine Learning Engineer vs Systems Administrator: Which Pays More?
Side-by-side salary comparison by city, experience level, and career growth outlook. Data reflects current market rates.
Machine Learning Engineer
Design and deploy machine learning models to production systems.
Systems Administrator
Manage servers, operating systems, and IT infrastructure.
Machine Learning Engineer earns more on average — the national median is $21,100/year (21%) higher than a Systems Administrator. However, salaries vary significantly by city, employer, and experience level — see the city-by-city breakdown below.
Machine Learning Engineer vs Systems Administrator — Salary by City
National median figures in USD across top cities.
| City | Machine Learning Engineer | Systems Administrator | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| San Francisco, CA | $173,682 | $146,173 | Machine +$27,509 |
| New York, NY | $135,980 | $120,157 | Machine +$15,823 |
| Seattle, WA | $174,792 | $143,912 | Machine +$30,880 |
| Austin, TX | $134,974 | $108,712 | Machine +$26,262 |
| Chicago, IL | $129,773 | $104,809 | Machine +$24,964 |
| Boston, MA | $157,928 | $127,175 | Machine +$30,753 |
| London, UK | £78,216 | £76,827 | Machine +$1,389 |
| Toronto, Canada | CA$134,265 | CA$130,867 | Machine +$3,398 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Does a Machine Learning Engineer or Systems Administrator earn more?+
A Machine Learning Engineer earns more on average. The national median salary for a Machine Learning Engineer is $120,230/year, compared to $99,130/year for a Systems Administrator — a difference of $21,100 (21%).
Which has better career growth — Machine Learning Engineer or Systems Administrator?+
Machine Learning Engineer roles are growing at 45% YoY while Systems Administrator demand is growing at 4% YoY. Machine Learning Engineer has stronger near-term demand growth.
Can you switch from Machine Learning Engineer to Systems Administrator?+
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 — Machine Learning Engineer or Systems Administrator?+
Machine Learning Engineer has a lower AI automation risk (22% vs 64%). Based on Oxford Martin School and McKinsey 2023 analysis.