Data Engineer Salary (2025)
Data engineers build data pipelines and infrastructure.
The median Data Engineer salary is $112,000 per year ($54/hour). Entry-level Data Engineers earn around $75,000 while experienced Data Engineers earn $165,000 or more annually.
Data Engineer salaries vary based on experience, specialization, and location. Advanced skills in cloud computing and big data technologies can command higher pay, with median salaries in AI and machine learning specializations exceeding $130,000. Regionally, tech hubs like San Francisco and New York offer salaries 20-30% above the national median due to higher living costs and demand.
AI-generated insight based on BLS data · For reference only
Salary Range
Median: $112,000 — positioned between entry and senior
Top Paying States for Data Engineers
| State | Est. Annual Salary | vs. National |
|---|---|---|
| Hawaii | $159,000 | +42% |
| California | $155,000 | +38% |
| New York | $143,000 | +28% |
| Alaska | $140,000 | +25% |
| Massachusetts | $140,000 | +25% |
| New Jersey | $134,000 | +20% |
| Connecticut | $132,000 | +18% |
| Washington | $129,000 | +15% |
Estimates based on cost-of-living index adjustments. Actual salaries vary by employer and experience.
How to Become a Data Engineer
Most Data Engineer positions require: Bachelor's in Computer Science. Salaries typically increase significantly with experience and specialization.
Data Engineer Salary by State
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average Data Engineer salary?
The median Data Engineer salary is $112,000 per year, which works out to approximately $54/hour based on a 40-hour work week.
How much does an entry-level Data Engineer make?
Entry-level Data Engineers typically earn around $75,000 per year. Salaries grow significantly with experience and specialization.
What is a senior Data Engineer's salary?
Experienced Data Engineers can earn up to $165,000 or more annually depending on location, employer, and specialization.
What education is required to become a Data Engineer?
Most Data Engineer positions require: Bachelor's in Computer Science.