What is a good salary for a Data Engineer?

In 2026, a good Data Engineer salary is around $141K (the national median). $177K+ is great (top 25%), and $217K+ is top-tier (top 10%). Earning below $112K is under market — worth a negotiation.

Below market< $112K

Under the 25th percentile — grounds to negotiate.

Decent$112K–$141K

Solid for early-career or lower-cost areas.

Good$141K–$177K

At/above the median — a genuinely good salary.

Great / top$177K+

Top quartile; $217K+ is top 10%.

It depends on where and how senior you are

Is it good in your city? →Data Engineer pay by experience →Am I underpaid? →

Common questions

What is a good salary for a Data Engineer in 2026?

A good Data Engineer salary is around $141K (the national median). $177K+ is great (top 25%) and $217K+ is top-tier (top 10%). Anything below $112K is under market for the role.

What is a high salary for a Data Engineer?

$177K puts you in the top quartile; $217K or more is top-10% pay for a Data Engineer. Reaching it usually means senior level, in-demand skills, or a high-cost metro.

Does a good Data Engineer salary depend on location?

Yes — the same number goes much further in a low-cost city. Use the cost-of-living check to see what a salary is really worth where you live.

Percentiles from BLS-anchored national data; a good salary also depends on cost of living and your level.