What is the average salary in Amherst, MA?
Amherst, MA, offers a range of salaries that reflect the diversity of its job market. The average yearly salary stands at around $57,503. This figure provides a good snapshot of the earnings potential across different sectors. Jobs in this area can lead to a comfortable living, with many positions offering competitive pay.
Salaries in Amherst vary widely by industry. The largest percentage of jobs, about 32.83%, fall into the $32,450 to $41,791 range. This is followed closely by roles that earn between $41,791 and $51,132, which make up 20.04% of the jobs. Higher-paying roles are also available, with some jobs reaching up to $135,200 annually. The distribution indicates that while many jobs offer decent pay, there are also opportunities for higher earnings in specialized fields.
What are the best paying jobs in Amherst, MA?

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Speech Language Pathologist
Average Salary: $89,106
Provide essential services to those with communication difficulties. Work in schools, clinics, and hospitals. Collaborate with educators and healthcare professionals to support individuals in achieving their communication goals.
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Registered Nurse
Average Salary: $83,767
Deliver patient care and support families during challenging times. Work in hospitals, clinics, and community settings. Engage with patients, families, and a team of healthcare providers to ensure the best outcomes.
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Licensed Practical Nurse
Average Salary: $78,620
Support patients with daily living activities and medical needs. Work in various healthcare facilities, including nursing homes and hospitals. Collaborate with doctors and registered nurses to provide quality care.
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Paraprofessional
Average Salary: $48,126
Assist teachers in the classroom and support student learning. Work in public and private schools. Engage with students, help with daily activities, and provide extra support to those who need it.
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Direct Support Professional
Average Salary: $40,652
Provide care and support to individuals with disabilities. Work in residential settings, group homes, and community programs. Help with daily living activities, promote independence, and ensure a safe environment.
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In Home Caregiver
Average Salary: $36,504
Provide personal care and companionship to clients in their homes. Offer assistance with daily activities, medication management, and companionship. Work closely with families to meet individual needs.
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What are the best paying jobs in Amherst, MA without a degree?

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Server Assistant
Average Salary: $38,222
The position involves helping servers with serving food and drinks. It works in various restaurants and cafes, offering experience in a bustling environment. Team skills are important to work with chefs and servers to ensure smooth service.
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Server
Average Salary: $38,039
Servers take orders and serve food and drinks to customers. They work in busy eateries and cater to a variety of guests. Experience in this role can lead to better positions in the food service industry.
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Food Service Aide
Average Salary: $37,559
This role includes preparing food and assisting with service. It takes place in dining areas and hotels. It gives a chance to learn more about food service and customer interaction.
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Line Cook
Average Salary: $37,404
Line cooks prepare ingredients and cook dishes in a fast-paced kitchen. They work in many restaurants and cater to a variety of menu needs. This job teaches important kitchen skills and teamwork.
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Dishwasher
Average Salary: $34,310
Dishwasher clean and sanitize dishes and utensils. They work in busy kitchens in hotels and restaurants. It is a hands-on job that requires attention to detail and good work ethic.
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Which companies offer the top salaries in Amherst, MA?

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Amherst-Pelham Regional School District
Average Salary: $60,036
This school district offers a variety of roles, from teaching positions to administrative jobs. They value education and professional growth.
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University of Massachusetts Amherst
Average Salary: $59,612
A top university, UMass Amherst provides numerous positions in academics, research, and administration. It is known for its research opportunities and vibrant campus life.
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Center for Extended Care at Amherst
Average Salary: $55,375
This healthcare facility focuses on providing long-term care and rehabilitation services. They offer a supportive environment with a focus on patient well-being.
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Amherst College
Average Salary: $52,331
Amherst College, a well-regarded liberal arts college, offers various roles in teaching, research, and administration. The college emphasizes academic excellence and community involvement.
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Hampshire College
Average Salary: $49,697
Known for its innovative approach to education, Hampshire College provides opportunities in teaching, research, and administration. The college promotes a progressive learning environment.
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Big Y
Average Salary: $40,529
Big Y is a supermarket chain that offers many positions, including retail, management, and administrative roles. The company values teamwork and customer service.
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ServiceNet
Average Salary: $39,870
ServiceNet provides community-based services for people with disabilities. They offer roles in support services, therapy, and administration, focusing on improving clients' quality of life.
How does the cost of living in Amherst, MA compare to the national average?

Amherst, MA, shows a cost of living index that varies across different categories when compared to the nationwide average, which is set at 100. Housing in Amherst stands at 125, indicating that it costs 25% more than the national average. This higher housing index suggests that Amherst may be more expensive for renters and homeowners alike.
Additionally, the grocery costs in Amherst are at 105, which is 5% higher than the average. Utilities, however, are slightly below the average at 98, meaning they cost 2% less. Transportation costs in Amherst are at 110, reflecting an increase of 10% compared to the national average. Healthcare costs are notably lower, standing at 90, which is 10% below the national average. Finally, miscellaneous expenses are at 102, showing a modest 2% increase from the national average. Overall, while some categories in Amherst are higher, others are more affordable, providing a mixed picture for potential residents.



