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AI & Machine Learning Virginia (VA) 2026 Compensation Data

Machine Learning Engineer Salary in Virginia

The estimated median salary for a Machine Learning Engineer in Virginia is $161,300 per year. After federal withholdings, FICA, and state taxes, the average net take-home pay comes out to $9,356 / month.

2026 IRS & State Tax Formulas

Interactive Take-Home Pay Calculator

Adjust your target compensation to recalculate net take-home pay in Virginia.

Slider Adjustment$161,300 / yr
Junior RangeMedianPrincipal / Lead
Estimated Net Take-Home (monthly)
$9,356
Total Effective Tax
30.4%
Federal Tax$28,251
FICA (SS+Med)$12,340
Virginia Tax$8,435
Total Deductions-$49,025
Gross monthly: $13,442Keep 69.6% of your earnings
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Compensation by Seniority Level

How pay scales from entry-level to lead positions in Virginia.

Experience TierGross AnnualNet Take-Home (Yr)Net MonthlyEst. Tax Rate
Entry-Level (0-2 yrs)$119,362$86,022$7,168/mo27.9%
Mid-Level (Median)$161,300$112,275$9,356/mo30.4%
Senior / Staff (5+ yrs)$229,046$156,632$13,053/mo31.6%

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Market Demand & Top Cities

In Virginia, a Machine Learning Engineer commands a competitive compensation package averaging $161,300.0 per year. Due to Virginia's expanding economic hubs (Arlington, McLean, Richmond, Tysons), companies actively recruit specialized talent with modern engineering stacks.

Primary Hiring Hubs in Virginia:
ArlingtonMcLeanRichmondTysons
Purchasing Power Analysis

With an overall cost of living index of 102.1, expenses in Virginia are in line with the US national average. With a state tax rate around 5.8%, professionals retain a balanced proportion of their gross earnings.

Cost of Living Index:102.1 (US Base = 100)

How to Maximize Your Machine Learning Engineer Compensation

1Mastering specialized tech such as PyTorch and TensorFlow
2Acquiring industry certifications like AWS Machine Learning Specialty
3Transitioning into lead architecture or cross-functional team mentorship
Valuable Certifications:AWS Machine Learning SpecialtyGoogle Professional ML Engineer

Frequently Asked Questions

Is $161,300.0 a good salary for a Machine Learning Engineer in Virginia?

Yes. An annual salary of $161,300.0 provides a strong standard of living in Virginia, allowing comfortable discretionary spending and retirement savings.

How much tax will I pay as a Machine Learning Engineer in Virginia?

On a gross income of $161,300.0, your estimated total taxes comprise Federal income tax, FICA contributions (Social Security & Medicare), and Virginia state income tax (5.8%).

What is the take-home monthly pay for a Machine Learning Engineer in Virginia?

After federal and state withholdings, the estimated take-home pay is approximately $9,678 - $10,484 per month depending on individual deductions.

What cities in Virginia pay the highest for Machine Learning Engineer roles?

Top paying metropolitan regions in Virginia include Arlington, McLean, Richmond, Tysons, which host a heavy concentration of enterprise and venture-backed employers.

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