Machine Learning Engineer Jobs in Portland, ME

Portland, Maine$172,800 USD/yearFull-time
Updated: March 2026Expert reviewed|Data sourced from BLS, Glassdoor, and industry reports

Machine Learning Engineer Salary in Portland

Entry Level
$110,160
Median
$172,800
Senior Level
$248,400

Machine Learning Engineer salaries in Portland are in line with national averages, offering competitive compensation for the region.

Purchasing power in Portland is comparable to the national average, with salaries appropriately scaled to local costs.

Required Skills

PythonTensorFlowDeep LearningMLOpsMathematics

Machine Learning Engineer Job Market in Portland

Portland, ME is a specialized market with unique career opportunities for Machine Learning Engineer professionals. Though smaller than coastal metros, Portland offers focused opportunities and often better work-life balance. The city's strong Healthcare and Tourism sectors create robust demand for Machine Learning Engineer talent. The market for Machine Learning Engineer positions remains stable, with opportunities in both established companies and growing organizations.

Top Companies Hiring Machine Learning Engineers in Portland

Local tech startupsRegional IT firmsNational tech companies with local offices

Major employers hiring Machine Learning Engineers in Portland include Local tech startups, Regional IT firms, National tech companies with local offices. Many companies offer competitive benefits including comprehensive healthcare, and professional development opportunities.

Cost of Living for Machine Learning Engineers in Portland

Living in Portland as a Machine Learning Engineer means navigating a cost of living that's slightly above the national average. Average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment is approximately $1,800/month. At median Machine Learning Engineer salary, housing is quite affordable at 13% of gross income, leaving room for savings and lifestyle spending. Suburban apartments average $1,400/month, offering significant savings with slightly longer commutes.

108
Cost Index (100=avg)
$1.8K
Avg Rent/Month
Growing
Tech Hub
Tier 4
Market Size

Commuting as a Machine Learning Engineer in Portland

Portland Limited public transit options; car recommended for most commutes. The average commute time is 25 minutes. Research employer-specific shuttle services. Consider living close to your workplace. Since transit options are limited, consider living close to your workplace or negotiating flexible hours to avoid peak traffic.

Best neighborhoods for Machine Learning Engineers in Portland: Downtown (Central business district with tech companies); Tech Park/Campus (Suburban office park developments). Downtown is particularly popular among Machine Learning Engineer professionals due to proximity to major employers and urban amenities.

Tax Considerations in Maine

Maine has relatively high state income taxes. A Machine Learning Engineer earning $172,800 might pay approximately $13,824 in state income tax. However, Maine's strong job market and quality of life often offset the higher tax burden.

Career Outlook for Machine Learning Engineers

The job outlook for Machine Learning Engineers in Portland is stable. While not experiencing rapid growth, the field maintains steady demand with consistent opportunities for qualified professionals. While the market is smaller, Portland offers opportunities for those seeking specialized roles or better work-life balance. In-demand skills include Python, TensorFlow, Deep Learning, MLOps.

Relocating to Portland

Maine has higher state income taxes. Factor this into salary negotiations, as gross salary comparisons can be misleading.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the average Machine Learning Engineer salary in Portland, ME?

The average Machine Learning Engineer salary in Portland, ME is $172,800 per year. Entry-level Machine Learning Engineers typically start around $110,160, while experienced professionals can earn $248,400 or more. The national average for Machine Learning Engineer roles is $160,000.

How many Machine Learning Engineer jobs are available in Portland?

Portland has a growing job market with steady opportunities for Machine Learning Engineer professionals. Major employers hiring Machine Learning Engineers include Local tech startups, Regional IT firms, National tech companies with local offices. The Healthcare and Tourism sectors drive much of the demand in this market.

Is Portland a good city for Machine Learning Engineers?

Portland is an solid choice for Machine Learning Engineers. While not as large as coastal metros, it offers solid opportunities and often better work-life balance. The cost of living is reasonable compared to major coastal cities. The city's healthcare industry creates strong demand for technology & software professionals.

What skills are most in-demand for Machine Learning Engineers in Portland?

Top skills for Machine Learning Engineers in Portland include Python, TensorFlow, Deep Learning, MLOps, Mathematics. Employers value both technical expertise and soft skills like communication and teamwork.

What is the cost of living for Machine Learning Engineers in Portland?

Portland's cost of living is near the national average (108% of baseline). Average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment is approximately $1,800/month. Purchasing power in Portland is comparable to the national average, with salaries appropriately scaled to local costs.

How is the commute for Machine Learning Engineers in Portland?

Portland Limited public transit options; car recommended for most commutes. The average commute is 25 minutes. Research employer-specific shuttle services.

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