Software Engineer Salary in Massachusetts
The median software engineer salary in Massachusetts is $180,090 per year, which is 45.0% above the national median of $124,200.
Software Engineer Salary Overview in Massachusetts (2026)
Massachusetts ranks #3 out of 50 states for software engineer compensation. This places Massachusetts in the top tier nationally, making it one of the best states for software engineers seeking high pay. At $180,090 per year, software engineers in Massachusetts earn $55,890 more than the national median of $124,200.
It's worth noting that Massachusetts's cost of living is 135% of the national average, which reduces the real purchasing power of the $180,090 salary. After adjusting for cost of living, the effective salary is closer to $133,400.
The salary spread in Massachusetts is significant: software engineers at the 10th percentile earn $108,170, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $287,941 — a $179,771 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 $211,140.
Nationally, software engineer employment is projected to grow 25% over the next decade (much faster than average). This strong growth suggests increasing demand and competitive salaries in Massachusetts and beyond.
Software Engineer Salary in Massachusetts by Experience
In Massachusetts, an entry-level software engineer earns around $113,100, while experienced professionals earn up to $268,250 per year. The cost of living index in Massachusetts is 135% of the national average.
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View Offers You Qualify For →Salary Percentiles in Massachusetts
| Percentile | MA Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $108,170 |
| 25th Percentile | $142,390 |
| Median (50th) | $180,090 |
| 75th Percentile | $229,390 |
| 90th Percentile | $287,941 |
Software Engineer Salary by City in Massachusetts
The largest employment areas for software engineers in Massachusetts include Boston, Worcester, Springfield, and Cambridge. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.
How to Become a Software Engineer in Massachusetts
Education
Most software engineer positions require a bachelor's degree. Massachusetts has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Massachusetts
Nationally, software engineer employment is projected to grow 25% over the next decade (much faster than average). Massachusetts's demand may vary based on local industry trends.
Negotiate Your Way to Senior Pay
Data shows Software Engineers who negotiate earn 7–15% more. A single negotiation could add $88,160 over your career trajectory.
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