Overview Salaries

Salaries in Amherst, MA

Updated on Aug 12, 2025
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What is the average salary in Amherst, MA?

The average salary in Amherst, MA is $56,064 per year.
Yearly
Monthly
Weekly
Hourly
Graph depicting the yearly salary distribution for Amherst, MA, showing an average salary of $56,064 with varying distribution percentages across salary ranges.
Graph depicting the monthly salary distribution for Amherst, MA, showing an average salary of $4,672 with varying distribution percentages across salary ranges.
Graph depicting the weekly salary distribution for Amherst, MA, showing an average salary of $1,078 with varying distribution percentages across salary ranges.
Graph depicting the hourly salary distribution for Amherst, MA, showing an average salary of $27 with varying distribution percentages across salary ranges.

Amherst, MA offers a variety of job opportunities with competitive salaries. The average yearly salary in the area is $56,064. This figure reflects the diverse economic landscape, with many jobs offering salaries that align with or exceed this average.

The salary distribution in Amherst shows a range of earnings. Some of the highest-paying positions include roles in management, healthcare, and education, with salaries reaching up to $133,000 per year. Other notable sectors include technology, finance, and research, where salaries often start at around $78,000 annually. This variety provides job seekers with multiple avenues to consider based on their skills and career goals.

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What are the best paying jobs in Amherst, MA?

Amherst, MA, offers several high-paying jobs, especially in healthcare. Registered Nurses earn the highest average salary of $89,922. This role involves patient care and coordination with other healthcare professionals. Behavior Analysts also earn a strong salary, averaging $89,688. They work with individuals to improve behaviors, often in educational or clinical settings. Other well-paying jobs in Amherst include Licensed Practical Nurses, earning $81,416, and Registered Behavior Technicians, with an average salary of $49,864. These roles require specialized skills and training, making them valuable in the community. Job seekers interested in these fields can find rewarding opportunities in Amherst.
Graph displaying best paying job salaries in Amherst, MA, highlighting Registered Nurse with the highest at $89,922 and In Home Caregiver with the lowest at $35,717.

  1. Registered Nurse
    Average Salary: $89,922
    Registered Nurses provide care to patients and help them manage their health. They work in hospitals, clinics, and schools. Amherst has many healthcare facilities, including UMass Memorial Health, offering many opportunities.
    Find Registered Nurse jobs in Amherst, MA


  2. Behavior Analyst
    Average Salary: $89,688
    Behavior Analysts study and improve behaviors. They work with children and adults with special needs. Amherst is home to several schools and organizations that need their services, such as the Amherst Regional School District.
    Find Behavior Analyst jobs in Amherst, MA


  3. Licensed Practical Nurse
    Average Salary: $81,416
    Licensed Practical Nurses assist doctors and Registered Nurses. They provide basic care to patients. Amherst has many healthcare facilities, including Cooley Dickinson Hospital, where LPNs are in demand.
    Find Licensed Practical Nurse jobs in Amherst, MA


  4. Registered Behavior Technician
    Average Salary: $49,864
    Registered Behavior Technicians work under Behavior Analysts. They help implement behavior plans for patients. Amherst has many schools and clinics that need their services, such as the Devereux Advanced Behavioral Health.
    Find Registered Behavior Technician jobs in Amherst, MA


  5. Paraprofessional
    Average Salary: $46,510
    Paraprofessionals support teachers in classrooms. They help students with their learning. Amherst Regional School District and other local schools offer many positions for those who want to help students succeed.
    Find Paraprofessional jobs in Amherst, MA


  6. Cook
    Average Salary: $42,509
    Cooks prepare meals in restaurants, schools, and hospitals. They follow recipes and ensure food is safe. Amherst has many dining options, including UMass Dining Services, where cooks are needed.
    Find Cook jobs in Amherst, MA


  7. Medical Assistant
    Average Salary: $41,916
    Medical Assistants help doctors and nurses in clinics and hospitals. They take care of patients and handle paperwork. Amherst has many healthcare facilities, such as UMass Memorial Health, where they are needed.
    Find Medical Assistant jobs in Amherst, MA


  8. Direct Support Professional
    Average Salary: $39,157
    Direct Support Professionals help people with disabilities live independently. They provide personal care and support. Amherst has many organizations, such as the Devereux Advanced Behavioral Health, that offer these roles.
    Find Direct Support Professional jobs in Amherst, MA


  9. Home Health Aide
    Average Salary: $37,430
    Home Health Aides care for patients in their homes. They help with daily activities and provide companionship. Amherst has many elderly residents who need their care, including those served by local home care agencies.
    Find Home Health Aide jobs in Amherst, MA


  10. In Home Caregiver
    Average Salary: $35,717
    In Home Caregivers provide personal care to clients in their homes. They assist with daily tasks and ensure the safety of their clients. Amherst has many families and individuals who need their services, including those supported by local care agencies.
    Find In Home Caregiver jobs in Amherst, MA

What are the best paying jobs in Amherst, MA without a degree?

Amherst, MA offers several high-paying jobs that do not require a degree. Server Assistants and Servers both earn around $38,700 annually. These roles provide good pay and are accessible without needing a college education. The next highest-paying jobs include Line Cooks, who earn about $36,700 per year, and Housekeeping staff, who make around $33,300. Dishwashers also have a role in this list, with an average salary of $33,100. These positions offer competitive pay and are suitable for those without a degree.
Graph displaying best paying job salaries in Amherst, MA without a degree, highlighting Server Assistant with the highest at $38,801 and Dishwasher with the lowest at $33,135.

  1. Server Assistant
    Average Salary: $38,801
    This role involves helping servers with tasks like setting up tables and clearing dishes. It is a great entry point for those interested in the hospitality industry. Many local restaurants and cafes offer this position.
    Find Server Assistant jobs in Amherst, MA


  2. Server
    Average Salary: $38,738
    Servers take orders and serve food and drinks to customers. They need to be friendly and efficient. This job is available in many dining establishments, from casual cafes to fine dining restaurants.
    Find Server jobs in Amherst, MA


  3. Line Cook
    Average Salary: $36,730
    Line cooks prepare ingredients and cook food quickly. They work in fast-paced environments like restaurants and cafes. This job is ideal for those who enjoy cooking and working in a team.
    Find Line Cook jobs in Amherst, MA


  4. Housekeeping
    Average Salary: $33,269
    Housekeeping staff clean and maintain rooms in hotels and motels. They ensure guests have a comfortable stay. This job is available in many lodging facilities in the area.
    Find Housekeeping jobs in Amherst, MA


  5. Dishwasher
    Average Salary: $33,135
    Dishwasher cleans dishes, utensils, and kitchen equipment. They work in busy kitchens and need to be detail-oriented. This role is available in various restaurants and cafes.
    Find Dishwasher jobs in Amherst, MA

Which companies offer the top salaries in Amherst, MA?

Amherst, MA, offers a range of job opportunities with competitive salaries. The Amherst-Pelham Regional School District leads with an average salary of $58,857. Following closely, the University of Massachusetts Amherst provides an average salary of $57,052. These institutions demonstrate a commitment to rewarding their employees well. Other notable employers in Amherst include Amherst College, with an average salary of $53,166, and the Center for Extended Care at Amherst, offering $52,152 on average. Hampshire College and ServiceNet also provide solid compensation, with average salaries of $51,024 and $42,419, respectively. Job seekers in Amherst can find attractive salary packages at these reputable companies.
Graph displaying company salaries in Amherst, MA, highlighting Amherst-Pelham Regional School District with the highest at $58,857 and The Loomis Communities with the lowest at $39,240.

  1. Amherst-Pelham Regional School District
    Average Salary: $58,857
    This school district provides education services to students in Amherst and Pelham. It offers a range of teaching and administrative positions.


  2. University of Massachusetts Amherst
    Average Salary: $57,052
    A leading public research university, UMass Amherst offers a variety of academic and administrative roles. It is known for its strong programs in science, engineering, and business.


  3. Amherst College
    Average Salary: $53,166
    Amherst College is a private liberal arts college. It provides opportunities in teaching, research, and administrative positions. The college is known for its rigorous academic programs.


  4. Center for Extended Care at Amherst
    Average Salary: $52,152
    This healthcare facility offers extended care services. It provides positions for healthcare professionals, including nurses, therapists, and support staff.


  5. Hampshire College
    Average Salary: $51,024
    Hampshire College is a small liberal arts college. It offers teaching, administrative, and support roles. The college is known for its innovative curriculum and small class sizes.


  6. ServiceNet
    Average Salary: $42,419
    ServiceNet provides services to people with disabilities and older adults. It offers positions in healthcare, social services, and administrative roles.


  7. Big Y
    Average Salary: $40,088
    Big Y is a supermarket chain. It offers retail positions, including management and staff roles. The company is known for its quality products and customer service.


  8. The Loomis Communities
    Average Salary: $39,240
    The Loomis Communities provide senior living services. It offers positions for caregivers, administrative staff, and support roles. The company is known for its compassionate care.

How does the cost of living in Amherst, MA compare to the national average?

Amherst, MA, has a higher cost of living compared to the nationwide average. The overall cost of living index in Amherst is 108, which is 8% higher than the national average of 100. Housing costs in Amherst are notably higher, with an index of 120, representing a 20% increase over the national average. This suggests that potential residents should consider these elevated costs when planning their budget.
Cost of living comparison graph for Amherst, MA vs. Nationwide: housing 20% higher, groceries 5% higher, utilities 5% lower, transportation 10% higher, healthcare 15% higher, miscellaneous 0% lower.

Amherst, MA, has a higher cost of living compared to the national average, with a cost of living index of 110. This means that the overall expenses for living in Amherst are 10% higher than the nationwide average. Housing costs in Amherst are particularly significant, with an index of 120, indicating that housing expenses are 20% higher than the national average. This higher cost can be a crucial factor for job seekers considering relocation to Amherst.


In addition to housing, other areas such as groceries, transportation, and healthcare also have higher costs in Amherst. Groceries have a cost of living index of 105, which is 5% higher than the national average. Transportation costs are 10% higher, with an index of 110, while healthcare costs are 15% higher, with an index of 115. These increases suggest that while Amherst offers a high quality of life, potential residents should be prepared for higher expenses in these areas. Understanding these costs can help job seekers make informed decisions about their new living situation.

There are 290 job openings in Amherst, MA, today!

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Amherst, MA
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