TechnologyOfficial Payroll Survey · 99/1003–5 years
3–5 Years Experience Data Engineer Salary in Los Angeles
2026 · Professionals with 3–5 years building toward senior-level expertise.
$145,529/yr
Typical range: $122,245 – $193,320
P25–P50 · BLS OEWS employer payroll data
Data Engineer salary by experience level in Los Angeles
Data Engineer Salary Progression in Los Angeles
From entry-level through staff — based on BLS OEWS percentile data
| Experience Level | Years | Percentile | Annual Salary | Monthly | vs Entry |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry | 0 yrs | 0 yrs | $104,535 | $8,711 | — |
| Junior | 2 yrs | 2 yrs | $129,132 | $10,761 | +24% |
| Mid-LevelThis page | 4 yrs | 4 yrs | $145,529 | $12,127 | +39% |
| Senior | 6 yrs | 6 yrs | $168,486 | $14,041 | +61% |
| Staff | 10 yrs | 10 yrs | $227,517 | $18,960 | +118% |
| Principal | 14 yrs | 14 yrs | $285,319 | $23,777 | +173% |
| Distinguished | 18 yrs | 18 yrs | $299,770 | $24,981 | +187% |
Current Salary
$145,529
3–5 Years Experience · 3–5 years
Hourly: $70/hr
Next Level Target
$168,486
Senior · 6
+$23Kpotential uplift
Career Opportunity
71/100
Above Average
+34% demand · Moderate AI risk
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the 3–5 years experience Data Engineer salary in Los Angeles, CA?
3–5 Years Experience Data Engineers in Los Angeles, CA earn approximately $146K per year (2026). This corresponds to the P25–P50 range of BLS OEWS employer payroll data.
How much does a 3–5 years experience Data Engineer make per hour in Los Angeles, CA?
Based on $146K annually, the hourly rate is approximately $70/hr (2,080-hour work year).
How do I get from 3–5 years experience to senior Data Engineer in Los Angeles, CA?
The typical progression takes 2–4 years with consistent skill development, project leadership, and strategic job moves. A senior Data Engineer in Los Angeles, CA earns $193K–$238K/yr.