Petroleum Engineer Salary in Boston, Massachusetts
The median petroleum engineer salary in Boston, MA is $200,336 per year, which is 52.0% above the national median and 12.6% above the Massachusetts state average.
Petroleum Engineer Pay in Boston: What to Expect (2026)
Boston offers a median petroleum engineer salary of $200,336, which is $22,406 above the Massachusetts state average of $177,930. Compared to the national median of $131,800, Boston pays above average for this role.
However, Boston's cost of living index is 152%, significantly above the national average. After adjusting for local costs, the $200,336 salary has an effective purchasing power of approximately $131,800. Housing, transportation, and food costs in Boston should be factored into any relocation or job-change decision.
The salary range for petroleum engineers in Boston spans from $121,600 at the 10th percentile to $307,040 at the 90th percentile — a $185,440 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $127,680, while senior petroleum engineers with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $296,400. As a major metro area with a population of 675,647, Boston typically offers more job opportunities and employer competition, which can drive salaries higher.
Petroleum Engineer Salary in Boston by Experience
In Boston, an entry-level petroleum engineer earns around $127,680, while experienced professionals earn up to $296,400 per year. The local cost of living index is 152% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Boston, MA
| Percentile | Boston |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $121,600 |
| 25th Percentile | $155,040 |
| Median (50th) | $200,336 |
| 75th Percentile | $255,360 |
| 90th Percentile | $307,040 |
Petroleum Engineer Salary in Other Massachusetts Cities
How to Become a Petroleum Engineer in Boston
Education
Most petroleum engineer positions require a bachelor's degree. Boston and the surrounding Massachusetts area have institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook
Nationally, petroleum engineer employment is projected to grow 8% over the next decade (faster than average). Demand in Boston may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Petroleum Engineer Jobs in Boston
Browse open petroleum engineer positions in Boston, MA: