Engineering Massachusetts (MA) Rank #3 of 50

Aerospace Engineer Salary in Massachusetts

The median aerospace engineer salary in Massachusetts is $171,288 per year, which is 35.0% above the national median of $126,880.

Median Salary
$171,288
vs National
+$44,408
State Rank
#3 of 50
Cost of Living
135%

Aerospace Engineer Salary Overview in Massachusetts (2026)

Massachusetts ranks #3 out of 50 states for aerospace engineer compensation. This places Massachusetts in the top tier nationally, making it one of the best states for aerospace engineers seeking high pay. At $171,288 per year, aerospace engineers in Massachusetts earn $44,408 more than the national median of $126,880.

It's worth noting that Massachusetts's cost of living is 135% of the national average, which reduces the real purchasing power of the $171,288 salary. After adjusting for cost of living, the effective salary is closer to $126,880.

The salary spread in Massachusetts is significant: aerospace engineers at the 10th percentile earn $105,300, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $259,200 — a $153,900 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in Massachusetts for this role is Cambridge, where the median reaches $203,008.

Nationally, aerospace engineer employment is projected to grow 6% over the next decade (faster than average). This steady growth indicates stable demand for aerospace engineers across the country.

Aerospace Engineer Salary in Massachusetts by Experience

In Massachusetts, an entry-level aerospace engineer earns around $108,000, while experienced professionals earn up to $249,750 per year. The cost of living index in Massachusetts is 135% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$108,000
+$28,000 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$172,800
+$44,800 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$249,750
+$64,750 vs national

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Salary Percentiles in Massachusetts

Percentile MA Salary
10th Percentile $105,300
25th Percentile $135,000
Median (50th) $171,288
75th Percentile $216,000
90th Percentile $259,200

Aerospace Engineer Salary by City in Massachusetts

The largest employment areas for aerospace engineers in Massachusetts include Boston, Worcester, Springfield, and Cambridge. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.

How to Become a Aerospace Engineer in Massachusetts

Education

Most aerospace engineer positions require a bachelor's degree. Massachusetts has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.

Key Skills

AerodynamicsCATIA/CADStructural AnalysisMATLABPropulsion SystemsFEA

Job Outlook in Massachusetts

Nationally, aerospace engineer employment is projected to grow 6% over the next decade (faster than average). Massachusetts's demand may vary based on local industry trends.

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Frequently Asked Questions: Aerospace Engineer Salary in Massachusetts

How much does a Aerospace Engineer make in Massachusetts? ▼
The median aerospace engineer salary in Massachusetts is $171,288 per year, which is 35.0% above the national median of $126,880. Salaries range from $105,300 (10th percentile) to $259,200 (90th percentile).
How much does a Aerospace Engineer make per hour in Massachusetts? ▼
Based on the median annual salary of $171,288, a aerospace engineer in Massachusetts earns approximately $82 per hour assuming a standard 2,080-hour work year.
Is Massachusetts a good state for aerospace engineers? ▼
Massachusetts ranks #3 out of 50 states for aerospace engineer pay. The cost of living index is 135% of the national average. Entry-level aerospace engineers earn $108,000, while senior professionals earn $249,750.
How does Massachusetts compare to other states for aerospace engineer salary? ▼
The highest paying state for aerospace engineers is Hawaii at $215,696. Massachusetts's median of $171,288 ranks #3 nationally. Nearby-ranked states include Hawaii ($215,696) and California ($175,094).
What is the entry-level aerospace engineer salary in Massachusetts? ▼
An entry-level aerospace engineer in Massachusetts earns approximately $108,000 per year. With 3-7 years of experience, pay increases to around $172,800. Senior-level professionals with 8+ years earn up to $249,750.
What city in Massachusetts pays aerospace engineers the most? ▼
Cambridge is the highest paying city in Massachusetts for aerospace engineers, with a median salary of $203,008. Other cities include Boston and Worcester.