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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 51 | Pharmacists | Healthcare | $138K | $66.43/hr |
| 52 | Information Security Analysts | Technology | $137K | $65.65/hr |
| 53 | Sales Engineers | Sales | $136K | $65.48/hr |
| 54 | Engineering Teachers, Postsecondary | Education | $135K | N/A |
| 55 | Management Analysts | Business & Finance | $135K | $64.77/hr |
| 56 | Health Specialties Teachers, Postsecondary | Education | $135K | N/A |
| 57 | Medical and Health Services Managers | Management | $134K | $64.59/hr |
| 58 | Political Scientists | Science | $134K | $64.39/hr |
| 59 | Materials Scientists | Science | $133K | $63.75/hr |
| 60 | Law Teachers, Postsecondary | Education | $132K | N/A |
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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Calculate take-home pay in Massachusetts
After federal and state taxes
Can you afford a 2-bedroom in Massachusetts?
Salary thresholds by HUD rent data
What salary do you need to live comfortably in Massachusetts?
Monthly budget breakdown with HUD and BLS data