Archivist Salary in Massachusetts
The median archivist salary in Massachusetts is $79,164 per year, which is 35.0% above the national median of $58,640.
Archivist Salary Overview in Massachusetts (2026)
Massachusetts ranks #3 out of 50 states for archivist compensation. This places Massachusetts in the top tier nationally, making it one of the best states for archivists seeking high pay. At $79,164 per year, archivists in Massachusetts earn $20,524 more than the national median of $58,640.
It's worth noting that Massachusetts's cost of living is 135% of the national average, which reduces the real purchasing power of the $79,164 salary. After adjusting for cost of living, the effective salary is closer to $58,640.
The salary spread in Massachusetts is significant: archivists at the 10th percentile earn $48,600, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $126,900 — a $78,300 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 $93,824.
Nationally, archivist employment is projected to grow 8% over the next decade (faster than average). This steady growth indicates stable demand for archivists across the country.
Archivist Salary in Massachusetts by Experience
In Massachusetts, an entry-level archivist earns around $51,300, while experienced professionals earn up to $118,800 per year. The cost of living index in Massachusetts is 135% of the national average.
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See Investment Options →Salary Percentiles in Massachusetts
| Percentile | MA Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $48,600 |
| 25th Percentile | $62,100 |
| Median (50th) | $79,164 |
| 75th Percentile | $102,600 |
| 90th Percentile | $126,900 |
Archivist Salary by City in Massachusetts
The largest employment areas for archivists in Massachusetts include Boston, Worcester, Springfield, and Cambridge. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.
How to Become a Archivist in Massachusetts
Education
Most archivist positions require a master's degree. Massachusetts has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Massachusetts
Nationally, archivist employment is projected to grow 8% over the next decade (faster than average). Massachusetts's demand may vary based on local industry trends.
Negotiate Your Way to Senior Pay
Data shows Archivists who negotiate earn 7–15% more. A single negotiation could add $39,636 over your career trajectory.
Get Negotiation Scripts — $197 →Open to Archivist Roles in Massachusetts?
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