Technology Massachusetts (MA) Rank #3 of 50

Systems Administrator Salary in Massachusetts

The median systems administrator salary in Massachusetts is $122,975 per year, which is 45.0% above the national median of $84,810.

Median Salary
$122,975
vs National
+$38,165
State Rank
#3 of 50
Cost of Living
135%

Systems Administrator Salary Overview in Massachusetts (2026)

Massachusetts ranks #3 out of 50 states for systems administrator compensation. This places Massachusetts in the top tier nationally, making it one of the best states for systems administrators seeking high pay. At $122,975 per year, systems administrators in Massachusetts earn $38,165 more than the national median of $84,810.

It's worth noting that Massachusetts's cost of living is 135% of the national average, which reduces the real purchasing power of the $122,975 salary. After adjusting for cost of living, the effective salary is closer to $91,093.

The salary spread in Massachusetts is significant: systems administrators at the 10th percentile earn $75,400, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $191,400 — a $116,000 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 $144,177.

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

Systems Administrator Salary in Massachusetts by Experience

In Massachusetts, an entry-level systems administrator earns around $79,750, while experienced professionals earn up to $181,250 per year. The cost of living index in Massachusetts is 135% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$79,750
+$24,750 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$124,700
+$38,700 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$181,250
+$56,250 vs national

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Salary Percentiles in Massachusetts

Percentile MA Salary
10th Percentile $75,400
25th Percentile $97,150
Median (50th) $122,975
75th Percentile $156,600
90th Percentile $191,400

Systems Administrator Salary by City in Massachusetts

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

How to Become a Systems Administrator in Massachusetts

Education

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

Key Skills

LinuxWindows ServerActive DirectoryNetworkingVirtualizationScripting

Job Outlook in Massachusetts

Nationally, systems administrator 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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Frequently Asked Questions: Systems Administrator Salary in Massachusetts

How much does a Systems Administrator make in Massachusetts? ▼
The median systems administrator salary in Massachusetts is $122,975 per year, which is 45.0% above the national median of $84,810. Salaries range from $75,400 (10th percentile) to $191,400 (90th percentile).
How much does a Systems Administrator make per hour in Massachusetts? ▼
Based on the median annual salary of $122,975, a systems administrator in Massachusetts earns approximately $59 per hour assuming a standard 2,080-hour work year.
Is Massachusetts a good state for systems administrators? ▼
Massachusetts ranks #3 out of 50 states for systems administrator pay. The cost of living index is 135% of the national average. Entry-level systems administrators earn $79,750, while senior professionals earn $181,250.
How does Massachusetts compare to other states for systems administrator salary? ▼
The highest paying state for systems administrators is Hawaii at $139,937. Massachusetts's median of $122,975 ranks #3 nationally. Nearby-ranked states include Hawaii ($139,937) and California ($129,759).
What is the entry-level systems administrator salary in Massachusetts? ▼
An entry-level systems administrator in Massachusetts earns approximately $79,750 per year. With 3-7 years of experience, pay increases to around $124,700. Senior-level professionals with 8+ years earn up to $181,250.
What city in Massachusetts pays systems administrators the most? ▼
Cambridge is the highest paying city in Massachusetts for systems administrators, with a median salary of $144,177. Other cities include Boston and Worcester.