Public Service Massachusetts (MA) Rank #3 of 50

Probation Officer Salary in Massachusetts

The median probation officer salary in Massachusetts is $81,338 per year, which is 35.0% above the national median of $60,250.

Median Salary
$81,338
vs National
+$21,088
State Rank
#3 of 50
Cost of Living
135%

Probation Officer Salary Overview in Massachusetts (2026)

Massachusetts ranks #3 out of 50 states for probation officer compensation. This places Massachusetts in the top tier nationally, making it one of the best states for probation officers seeking high pay. At $81,338 per year, probation officers in Massachusetts earn $21,088 more than the national median of $60,250.

It's worth noting that Massachusetts's cost of living is 135% of the national average, which reduces the real purchasing power of the $81,338 salary. After adjusting for cost of living, the effective salary is closer to $60,250.

The salary spread in Massachusetts is significant: probation officers at the 10th percentile earn $51,300, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $124,200 — a $72,900 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 $96,400.

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

Probation Officer Salary in Massachusetts by Experience

In Massachusetts, an entry-level probation officer earns around $54,000, while experienced professionals earn up to $118,800 per year. The cost of living index in Massachusetts is 135% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$54,000
+$14,000 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$83,700
+$21,700 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$118,800
+$30,800 vs national

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Salary Percentiles in Massachusetts

Percentile MA Salary
10th Percentile $51,300
25th Percentile $64,800
Median (50th) $81,338
75th Percentile $102,600
90th Percentile $124,200

Probation Officer Salary by City in Massachusetts

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

How to Become a Probation Officer in Massachusetts

Education

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

Key Skills

Case ManagementRisk AssessmentReport WritingCommunicationCrisis InterventionLegal Knowledge

Job Outlook in Massachusetts

Nationally, probation officer 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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Data shows Probation Officers who negotiate earn 7–15% more. A single negotiation could add $37,462 over your career trajectory.

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Frequently Asked Questions: Probation Officer Salary in Massachusetts

How much does a Probation Officer make in Massachusetts? ▼
The median probation officer salary in Massachusetts is $81,338 per year, which is 35.0% above the national median of $60,250. Salaries range from $51,300 (10th percentile) to $124,200 (90th percentile).
How much does a Probation Officer make per hour in Massachusetts? ▼
Based on the median annual salary of $81,338, a probation officer in Massachusetts earns approximately $39 per hour assuming a standard 2,080-hour work year.
Is Massachusetts a good state for probation officers? ▼
Massachusetts ranks #3 out of 50 states for probation officer pay. The cost of living index is 135% of the national average. Entry-level probation officers earn $54,000, while senior professionals earn $118,800.
How does Massachusetts compare to other states for probation officer salary? ▼
The highest paying state for probation officers is Hawaii at $102,425. Massachusetts's median of $81,338 ranks #3 nationally. Nearby-ranked states include Hawaii ($102,425) and California ($83,145).
What is the entry-level probation officer salary in Massachusetts? ▼
An entry-level probation officer in Massachusetts earns approximately $54,000 per year. With 3-7 years of experience, pay increases to around $83,700. Senior-level professionals with 8+ years earn up to $118,800.
What city in Massachusetts pays probation officers the most? ▼
Cambridge is the highest paying city in Massachusetts for probation officers, with a median salary of $96,400. Other cities include Boston and Worcester.