Software Engineer Salary in Boston, Massachusetts
The median software engineer salary in Boston, MA is $201,204 per year, which is 62.0% above the national median and 11.7% above the Massachusetts state average.
Software Engineer Pay in Boston: What to Expect (2026)
Boston offers a median software engineer salary of $201,204, which is $21,114 above the Massachusetts state average of $180,090. Compared to the national median of $124,200, 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 $201,204 salary has an effective purchasing power of approximately $132,371. Housing, transportation, and food costs in Boston should be factored into any relocation or job-change decision.
The salary range for software engineers in Boston spans from $120,852 at the 10th percentile to $321,700 at the 90th percentile — a $200,848 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $126,360, while senior software engineers with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $299,700. 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.
Software Engineer Salary in Boston by Experience
In Boston, an entry-level software engineer earns around $126,360, while experienced professionals earn up to $299,700 per year. The local cost of living index is 152% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Boston, MA
| Percentile | Boston |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $120,852 |
| 25th Percentile | $159,084 |
| Median (50th) | $201,204 |
| 75th Percentile | $256,284 |
| 90th Percentile | $321,700 |
Software Engineer Salary in Other Massachusetts Cities
How to Become a Software Engineer in Boston
Education
Most software engineer positions require a bachelor's degree. Boston and the surrounding Massachusetts area have institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook
Nationally, software engineer employment is projected to grow 25% over the next decade (much faster than average). Demand in Boston may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Software Engineer Jobs in Boston
Browse open software engineer positions in Boston, MA: