What is the average salary in Cambridge, MA?
Cambridge, MA, offers a range of salary opportunities across various industries. The average yearly salary in the area is $96,281. This figure reflects the diverse job market and the potential for competitive compensation. Job seekers can find roles that match their skills and experience, with salaries varying based on the industry and position.
Some of the top-paying industries in Cambridge include:
- Information Technology: $137,091
- Healthcare: $116,273
- Finance: $157,909
- Education: $74,636
- Professional Services: $95,455
These figures show the potential for earning a good income in Cambridge, making it an attractive location for job seekers looking to advance their careers.
What are the best paying jobs in Cambridge, MA?

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Regulatory Affairs Director
Average Salary: $205,180
This role involves overseeing compliance with regulations. It requires strong communication skills. Companies like Biogen and Merck are hiring for this position.
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Principal Scientist
Average Salary: $154,312
Principal scientists conduct research and experiments. They analyze data to develop new products. Companies like Novartis and Charles River Laboratories offer these roles.
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Data Scientist
Average Salary: $151,472
Data scientists analyze large datasets. They use statistical methods to inform business decisions. Firms like Google and Microsoft are looking for skilled data scientists.
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Software Engineer
Average Salary: $150,653
Software engineers design and develop software applications. They work with teams to create user-friendly programs. Companies like Akamai and Fidelity are hiring for this role.
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Researcher
Average Salary: $132,475
Researchers conduct studies to gather data. They analyze results and present findings. Institutions like Harvard and MIT are known for research opportunities.
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Engineer
Average Salary: $131,801
Engineers design and develop systems and products. They solve technical problems and ensure projects meet specifications. Companies like Raytheon and General Electric are hiring engineers.
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Surgical Technician
Average Salary: $130,827
Surgical technicians assist surgeons during operations. They prepare the operating room and handle instruments. Hospitals like Massachusetts General Hospital offer these positions.
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Director
Average Salary: $130,063
Directors oversee departments and manage teams. They set goals and ensure projects are completed. Companies like Fidelity and Charles River Laboratories need directors.
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Traveling Nurse
Average Salary: $129,763
Traveling nurses work in various locations. They provide patient care and support. Agencies like Aya Healthcare and Travel Nurse Across America offer these roles.
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Program Manager
Average Salary: $125,797
Program managers coordinate projects. They ensure tasks are completed on time and within budget. Companies like Akamai and Fidelity are hiring for this role.
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What are the best paying jobs in Cambridge, MA without a degree?

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Server
Average Salary: $49,254
Serve food and drinks to customers. Work in restaurants and cafes. Gain experience in customer service. Companies like Legal Sea Foods and The Capital Grille offer opportunities.
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Service Team Member
Average Salary: $44,275
Help customers with their orders. Work in fast-food restaurants and cafes. Learn about food preparation and customer service. Dunkin' and Starbucks are popular employers.
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Line Cook
Average Salary: $41,066
Prepare food in a fast-paced kitchen. Work in restaurants and cafes. Gain skills in cooking and kitchen management. Companies like Legal Sea Foods and The Capital Grille offer positions.
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Beauty Consultant
Average Salary: $40,346
Help customers with beauty products. Work in stores like Ulta Beauty and Sephora. Learn about skincare and makeup. Gain experience in sales and customer service.
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Server Assistant
Average Salary: $39,757
Help servers with their tasks. Work in restaurants and cafes. Gain experience in customer service and kitchen tasks. Companies like Legal Sea Foods and The Capital Grille offer opportunities.
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Barista
Average Salary: $39,424
Prepare and serve coffee and other drinks. Work in cafes and coffee shops. Learn about coffee brewing and customer service. Companies like Dunkin' and Starbucks offer positions.
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Ice Cream Vendor
Average Salary: $39,000
Sell ice cream and other treats. Work at events and fairs. Gain experience in sales and customer service. Companies like Ben & Jerry's and local vendors offer opportunities.
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Bar Back
Average Salary: $37,788
Help bartenders with their tasks. Work in bars and restaurants. Gain experience in bar operations and customer service. Companies like Legal Sea Foods and The Capital Grille offer positions.
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Housekeeping
Average Salary: $37,452
Clean and maintain rooms. Work in hotels and motels. Gain experience in cleaning and customer service. Companies like Hilton and Marriott offer opportunities.
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Dishwasher
Average Salary: $37,344
Wash dishes and clean kitchen areas. Work in restaurants and cafes. Gain experience in kitchen tasks and cleaning. Companies like Legal Sea Foods and The Capital Grille offer positions.
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Which companies offer the top salaries in Cambridge, MA?

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Sanofi
Average Salary: $191,448
Sanofi is a global healthcare company known for its innovative medicines and vaccines. It offers a wide range of career opportunities in research, development, and commercial roles.
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Google
Average Salary: $187,151
Google is a tech giant that provides various services and products. Its employees enjoy competitive salaries and a dynamic work environment.
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HubSpot
Average Salary: $182,526
HubSpot is a leading software company that offers tools for marketing, sales, and customer service. It is known for its collaborative culture and high employee satisfaction.
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Apple
Average Salary: $182,176
Apple is a renowned technology company that designs and manufactures consumer electronics. It is known for its innovative products and strong employee benefits.
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Bristol Myers Squibb
Average Salary: $179,057
Bristol Myers Squibb is a pharmaceutical company that develops and markets medicines. It offers a variety of career opportunities in research, development, and commercial roles.
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IPSEN
Average Salary: $176,760
IPSEN is a global biopharmaceutical company focused on innovation in oncology, neuroscience, and rare diseases. It provides a supportive work environment and competitive salaries.
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Takeda Pharmaceuticals
Average Salary: $175,975
Takeda is a global pharmaceutical company that specializes in rare diseases and gastroenterology. It offers a range of career opportunities and a commitment to employee well-being.
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Novartis
Average Salary: $174,299
Novartis is a leading pharmaceutical company that focuses on innovative medicines. It provides a dynamic work environment and a variety of career opportunities.
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Biogen
Average Salary: $160,226
Biogen is a biotechnology company that develops therapies for neurological and rare diseases. It offers a collaborative work environment and competitive salaries.
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Sarepta Therapeutics
Average Salary: $154,822
Sarepta Therapeutics is a biotechnology company focused on developing treatments for rare genetic diseases. It provides a supportive work environment and a range of career opportunities.
How does the cost of living in Cambridge, MA compare to the national average?

The cost of living in Cambridge, MA, significantly exceeds the nationwide average, making it a key consideration for job seekers. Housing costs in Cambridge stand at 185, which is 85% higher than the national average. This high index reflects the competitive real estate market and the demand for living close to educational and research institutions.
Other expenses also show a marked increase. Groceries cost 25% more than the national average, with an index of 125. Utilities and transportation each have a 10% higher cost, with indices of 110 and 115, respectively. Healthcare costs are also 25% above the national average, with an index of 125. These figures highlight the overall higher expenses that residents face in Cambridge compared to the rest of the country.



