Skip to content
AffordMap
Science · Massachusetts

How to Become a Social Science Research Assistants in Massachusetts

Social Science Research Assistants in Massachusetts earn a median salary of $60,110/year, which is 4% above the national average. Massachusetts has a state income tax of ~5.0%. After taxes and rent, a social science research assistants takes home approximately $2,532/month. Most positions require Bachelor's degree.

$60K
Median salary in Massachusetts
+4%
vs. national average
5.0%
State income tax
N/A
Employed in Massachusetts

What a social science research assistants can afford in Massachusetts

Gross annual salary$60,110
Est. monthly take-home (after fed + 5.0% state tax)$3,944/mo
Median 2BR rent (Massachusetts)-$1,412/mo
Rent as % of take-home35.8% (above 30% guideline)
Cost-of-living adjusted salary$60,110/yr (RPP: 100)
Monthly remaining after rent$2,532/mo

Becoming a social science research assistants in Massachusetts

1

Meet education requirements

Social Science Research Assistants positions in Massachusetts typically require Bachelor's degree. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Massachusetts. Research accredited programs in your area.

2

Gain required experience

Many social science research assistants positions in Massachusetts require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.

3

Obtain Massachusetts licensure or certification

Massachusetts may require specific licensing or professional certification for social science research assistantss. Requirements vary by state — contact the Massachusetts Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.

4

Find positions in Massachusetts

Massachusetts has an active job market for social science research assistants. The highest concentrations are in Worcester and Boston-Cambridge-Newton.

Social Science Research Assistants salary by metro area in Massachusetts

Metro areaMedianHourlyEmployment
Worcester$63K$30.12/hr40
Boston-Cambridge-Newton$60K$28.9/hr

Social Science Research Assistants salary range in Massachusetts

10th percentile (entry)
$46K
25th percentile
$46K
Median (50th)
$60K
75th percentile
$64K
90th percentile (senior)
$79K
View jobs for Social Science Research Assistants
Currently hiring in Massachusetts
View →
More openings for Social Science Research Assistants
Currently hiring in Massachusetts
View →
Advance your technical skills
Engineering, CAD, analytics, and project tools
View →
Full social science research assistants salary breakdown in Massachusetts
Percentiles, trends, and comparisons
View →
Calculate take-home pay in Massachusetts
After federal + 5.0% state tax
Calculate →
Compare Massachusetts cost of living to other states
See where your salary goes further
Compare →

Social Science Research Assistants careers in other states

Frequently asked questions

How much does a social science research assistants make in Massachusetts?

The median social science research assistants salary in Massachusetts is $60,110 per year ($28.9/hr). This is 4% above the national median of $58,040. Salaries range from $46,080 to $78,900.

What are the requirements to become a social science research assistants in Massachusetts?

Social Science Research Assistants positions in Massachusetts typically require Bachelor's degree. Massachusetts may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the Massachusetts licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.

Can a social science research assistants afford to live in Massachusetts?

At the median salary of $60,110, a social science research assistants in Massachusetts would take home approximately $3,944/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 35.8% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.

What are the best cities for social science research assistants in Massachusetts?

The highest paying metro areas for social science research assistants in Massachusetts are Worcester ($62,650), Boston-Cambridge-Newton ($60,110). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.

Does Massachusetts have state income tax for social science research assistants?

Yes, Massachusetts has a state income tax rate of approximately 5.0%. On a $60,110 salary, this means roughly $3,006/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.