Agriculture & Environment Massachusetts (MA) Rank #3 of 50

Forester Salary in Massachusetts

The median forester salary in Massachusetts is $86,117 per year, which is 35.0% above the national median of $63,790.

Median Salary
$86,117
vs National
+$22,327
State Rank
#3 of 50
Cost of Living
135%

Forester Salary Overview in Massachusetts (2026)

Massachusetts ranks #3 out of 50 states for forester compensation. This places Massachusetts in the top tier nationally, making it one of the best states for foresters seeking high pay. At $86,117 per year, foresters in Massachusetts earn $22,327 more than the national median of $63,790.

It's worth noting that Massachusetts's cost of living is 135% of the national average, which reduces the real purchasing power of the $86,117 salary. After adjusting for cost of living, the effective salary is closer to $63,790.

The salary spread in Massachusetts is significant: foresters at the 10th percentile earn $56,700, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $137,700 — a $81,000 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 $102,064.

Nationally, forester employment is projected to grow 3% over the next decade (as fast as average). This steady growth indicates stable demand for foresters across the country.

Forester Salary in Massachusetts by Experience

In Massachusetts, an entry-level forester earns around $59,400, while experienced professionals earn up to $128,250 per year. The cost of living index in Massachusetts is 135% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$59,400
+$15,400 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$87,750
+$22,750 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$128,250
+$33,250 vs national

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Salary Percentiles in Massachusetts

Percentile MA Salary
10th Percentile $56,700
25th Percentile $68,850
Median (50th) $86,117
75th Percentile $110,700
90th Percentile $137,700

Forester Salary by City in Massachusetts

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

How to Become a Forester in Massachusetts

Education

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

Key Skills

Forest ManagementGIS/GPSTimber CruisingEcologyFire ManagementEnvironmental Law

Job Outlook in Massachusetts

Nationally, forester employment is projected to grow 3% over the next decade (as fast as average). Massachusetts's demand may vary based on local industry trends.

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Frequently Asked Questions: Forester Salary in Massachusetts

How much does a Forester make in Massachusetts? ▼
The median forester salary in Massachusetts is $86,117 per year, which is 35.0% above the national median of $63,790. Salaries range from $56,700 (10th percentile) to $137,700 (90th percentile).
How much does a Forester make per hour in Massachusetts? ▼
Based on the median annual salary of $86,117, a forester in Massachusetts earns approximately $41 per hour assuming a standard 2,080-hour work year.
Is Massachusetts a good state for foresters? ▼
Massachusetts ranks #3 out of 50 states for forester pay. The cost of living index is 135% of the national average. Entry-level foresters earn $59,400, while senior professionals earn $128,250.
How does Massachusetts compare to other states for forester salary? ▼
The highest paying state for foresters is Hawaii at $108,443. Massachusetts's median of $86,117 ranks #3 nationally. Nearby-ranked states include Hawaii ($108,443) and California ($88,030).
What is the entry-level forester salary in Massachusetts? ▼
An entry-level forester in Massachusetts earns approximately $59,400 per year. With 3-7 years of experience, pay increases to around $87,750. Senior-level professionals with 8+ years earn up to $128,250.
What city in Massachusetts pays foresters the most? ▼
Cambridge is the highest paying city in Massachusetts for foresters, with a median salary of $102,064. Other cities include Boston and Worcester.