Software Engineer Salary in Cambridge, Massachusetts
The median software engineer salary in Cambridge, MA is $211,140 per year, which is 70.0% above the national median and 17.2% above the Massachusetts state average.
Software Engineer Pay in Cambridge: What to Expect (2026)
Cambridge offers a median software engineer salary of $211,140, which is $31,050 above the Massachusetts state average of $180,090. Compared to the national median of $124,200, Cambridge pays above average for this role.
However, Cambridge's cost of living index is 160%, significantly above the national average. After adjusting for local costs, the $211,140 salary has an effective purchasing power of approximately $131,963. Housing, transportation, and food costs in Cambridge should be factored into any relocation or job-change decision.
The salary range for software engineers in Cambridge spans from $126,820 at the 10th percentile to $337,586 at the 90th percentile — a $210,766 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $132,600, while senior software engineers with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $314,500. With a population of 118,403, Cambridge is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.
Software Engineer Salary in Cambridge by Experience
In Cambridge, an entry-level software engineer earns around $132,600, while experienced professionals earn up to $314,500 per year. The local cost of living index is 160% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Cambridge, MA
| Percentile | Cambridge |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $126,820 |
| 25th Percentile | $166,940 |
| Median (50th) | $211,140 |
| 75th Percentile | $268,940 |
| 90th Percentile | $337,586 |
Software Engineer Salary in Other Massachusetts Cities
How to Become a Software Engineer in Cambridge
Education
Most software engineer positions require a bachelor's degree. Cambridge 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 Cambridge may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Software Engineer Jobs in Cambridge
Browse open software engineer positions in Cambridge, MA: