Healthcare Massachusetts (MA) Rank #3 of 50

Psychologist Salary in Massachusetts

The median psychologist salary in Massachusetts is $122,022 per year, which is 43.0% above the national median of $85,330.

Median Salary
$122,022
vs National
+$36,692
State Rank
#3 of 50
Cost of Living
135%

Psychologist Salary Overview in Massachusetts (2026)

Massachusetts ranks #3 out of 50 states for psychologist compensation. This places Massachusetts in the top tier nationally, making it one of the best states for psychologists seeking high pay. At $122,022 per year, psychologists in Massachusetts earn $36,692 more than the national median of $85,330.

It's worth noting that Massachusetts's cost of living is 135% of the national average, which reduces the real purchasing power of the $122,022 salary. After adjusting for cost of living, the effective salary is closer to $90,387.

The salary spread in Massachusetts is significant: psychologists at the 10th percentile earn $68,640, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $221,650 — a $153,010 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 $143,354.

Nationally, psychologist employment is projected to grow 6% over the next decade (faster than average). This steady growth indicates stable demand for psychologists across the country.

Psychologist Salary in Massachusetts by Experience

In Massachusetts, an entry-level psychologist earns around $74,360, while experienced professionals earn up to $207,350 per year. The cost of living index in Massachusetts is 135% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$74,360
+$22,360 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$125,840
+$37,840 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$207,350
+$62,350 vs national

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Salary Percentiles in Massachusetts

Percentile MA Salary
10th Percentile $68,640
25th Percentile $91,520
Median (50th) $122,022
75th Percentile $164,450
90th Percentile $221,650

Psychologist Salary by City in Massachusetts

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

How to Become a Psychologist in Massachusetts

Education

Most psychologist positions require a doctoral degree. Massachusetts has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.

Key Skills

PsychotherapyPsychological AssessmentCBT/DBTResearch MethodsClinical DocumentationEthics

Job Outlook in Massachusetts

Nationally, psychologist employment is projected to grow 6% over the next decade (faster than average). Massachusetts's demand may vary based on local industry trends.

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Frequently Asked Questions: Psychologist Salary in Massachusetts

How much does a Psychologist make in Massachusetts? ▼
The median psychologist salary in Massachusetts is $122,022 per year, which is 43.0% above the national median of $85,330. Salaries range from $68,640 (10th percentile) to $221,650 (90th percentile).
How much does a Psychologist make per hour in Massachusetts? ▼
Based on the median annual salary of $122,022, a psychologist in Massachusetts earns approximately $59 per hour assuming a standard 2,080-hour work year.
Is Massachusetts a good state for psychologists? ▼
Massachusetts ranks #3 out of 50 states for psychologist pay. The cost of living index is 135% of the national average. Entry-level psychologists earn $74,360, while senior professionals earn $207,350.
How does Massachusetts compare to other states for psychologist salary? ▼
The highest paying state for psychologists is Hawaii at $151,887. Massachusetts's median of $122,022 ranks #3 nationally. Nearby-ranked states include Hawaii ($151,887) and California ($124,582).
What is the entry-level psychologist salary in Massachusetts? ▼
An entry-level psychologist in Massachusetts earns approximately $74,360 per year. With 3-7 years of experience, pay increases to around $125,840. Senior-level professionals with 8+ years earn up to $207,350.
What city in Massachusetts pays psychologists the most? ▼
Cambridge is the highest paying city in Massachusetts for psychologists, with a median salary of $143,354. Other cities include Boston and Worcester.