Librarian Salary in Massachusetts
The median librarian salary in Massachusetts is $82,607 per year, which is 35.0% above the national median of $61,190.
Librarian Salary Overview in Massachusetts (2026)
Massachusetts ranks #3 out of 50 states for librarian compensation. This places Massachusetts in the top tier nationally, making it one of the best states for librarians seeking high pay. At $82,607 per year, librarians in Massachusetts earn $21,417 more than the national median of $61,190.
It's worth noting that Massachusetts's cost of living is 135% of the national average, which reduces the real purchasing power of the $82,607 salary. After adjusting for cost of living, the effective salary is closer to $61,190.
The salary spread in Massachusetts is significant: librarians at the 10th percentile earn $52,920, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $130,410 — a $77,490 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 $97,904.
Nationally, librarian employment is projected to grow 3% over the next decade (as fast as average). This steady growth indicates stable demand for librarians across the country.
Librarian Salary in Massachusetts by Experience
In Massachusetts, an entry-level librarian earns around $56,700, 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 | $52,920 |
| 25th Percentile | $66,150 |
| Median (50th) | $82,607 |
| 75th Percentile | $104,220 |
| 90th Percentile | $130,410 |
Librarian Salary by City in Massachusetts
The largest employment areas for librarians in Massachusetts include Boston, Worcester, Springfield, and Cambridge. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.
How to Become a Librarian in Massachusetts
Education
Most librarian positions require a master's degree. Massachusetts has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Massachusetts
Nationally, librarian employment is projected to grow 3% over the next decade (as fast as average). Massachusetts's demand may vary based on local industry trends.
Negotiate Your Way to Senior Pay
Data shows Librarians who negotiate earn 7–15% more. A single negotiation could add $36,193 over your career trajectory.
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