Top Paying Jobs in Massachusetts
Massachusetts has 100 tracked occupation categories totaling 599,430 jobs. The highest-paying occupations include Radiologists ($426,560), Orthopedic Surgeons, Except Pediatric ($392,300), Surgeons, All Other ($387,150). The cost of living index is 100.09 (national average = 100). Median 2-bedroom rent is $2,347/month.
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State-level averages. Salaries, rent, and cost of living vary significantly between metros. For more accurate data, select a metro area from the list below or browse all metros.
$166K
Avg. median salary
100.09
Cost of living index
$2,347
Median 2BR rent
7,081,200
Population
Highest paying careers in Massachusetts
| Rank | Occupation | Category | Median salary | Hourly |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 31 | Economics Teachers, Postsecondary | Education | $164K | N/A |
| 32 | Advertising and Promotions Managers | Management | $163K | $78.41/hr |
| 33 | Database Architects | Technology | $162K | $77.72/hr |
| 34 | Nurse Midwives | Healthcare | $160K | $76.83/hr |
| 35 | Computer Network Architects | Technology | $155K | $74.55/hr |
| 36 | Fundraising Managers | Management | $152K | $72.95/hr |
| 37 | Optometrists | Healthcare | $152K | $72.95/hr |
| 38 | Aerospace Engineers | Engineering | $149K | $71.86/hr |
| 39 | Art Directors | Arts & Media | $149K | $71.79/hr |
| 40 | Industrial Production Managers | Management | $148K | $71.18/hr |
Affordability snapshot: Massachusetts
These are statewide averages. Costs vary widely between metros, click into a specific city for precise numbers.
Cost of living vs. national average+0.1% more expensive
2-bedroom apartment (FMR)$2,347/mo
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Metro areas in Massachusetts
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Compare Massachusetts to other cities
Side-by-side salary and cost of living comparison
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After federal and state taxes
Can you afford a 2-bedroom in Massachusetts?
Salary thresholds by HUD rent data
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Monthly budget breakdown with HUD and BLS data