Overview Salaries

Salaries in Cambridge, MA

Updated on Aug 21, 2026
City
Salary

What is the average salary in Cambridge, MA?

The average salary in Cambridge, MA is $109,461 per year.
Yearly
Monthly
Weekly
Hourly
Graph depicting the yearly salary distribution for Cambridge, MA, showing an average salary of $109,461 with varying distribution percentages across salary ranges.
Graph depicting the monthly salary distribution for Cambridge, MA, showing an average salary of $9,122 with varying distribution percentages across salary ranges.
Graph depicting the weekly salary distribution for Cambridge, MA, showing an average salary of $2,105 with varying distribution percentages across salary ranges.
Graph depicting the hourly salary distribution for Cambridge, MA, showing an average salary of $53 with varying distribution percentages across salary ranges.

Job seekers in Cambridge, MA, can expect competitive salaries across many industries. The city's average yearly salary stands at $109,461. This number reflects the diverse economic landscape, offering attractive opportunities for skilled professionals.


Salaries vary by field, with some sectors paying significantly more. For instance, the top 10% of earners make upwards of $211,318 annually. This distribution shows that fields such as technology, healthcare, and finance offer some of the highest salaries. On the other hand, entry-level positions may start at around $33,500. Job seekers can find roles that fit their experience and career goals in Cambridge, making it an appealing place to work.

View jobs in Cambridge, MA
View all jobs in Cambridge, MA

What are the best paying jobs in Cambridge, MA?

Cambridge, MA, offers a variety of top-paying job opportunities for professionals in multiple fields. The Regulatory Affairs Director leads the charge with an average salary of $225,484, making it one of the highest-paying roles in the area. Other well-paying positions include Clinical Supervisor, Principal Scientist, and Software Engineer, all offering competitive salaries that reflect their importance and demand. In addition to these roles, Clinical Supervisors, Principal Scientists, and Software Engineers enjoy lucrative salaries, with averages of $182,005, $162,436, and $157,437, respectively. These jobs attract skilled professionals due to their high earning potential and the dynamic nature of the work. These opportunities highlight the strong job market and the attractive compensation packages available in Cambridge.
Graph displaying best paying job salaries in Cambridge, MA, highlighting Regulatory Affairs Director with the highest at $225,484 and Pharmacist with the lowest at $137,880.

  1. Regulatory Affairs Director
    Average Salary: $225,484
    This role involves ensuring compliance with laws and regulations. It's a key part of pharmaceutical and biotech companies. These firms rely on this role to keep their products safe and on the market.
    Find Regulatory Affairs Director jobs in Cambridge, MA


  2. Clinical Supervisor
    Average Salary: $182,005
    This position leads clinical teams in hospitals and research centers. It ensures high-quality care and research outcomes. This role is crucial in academic and healthcare institutions.
    Find Clinical Supervisor jobs in Cambridge, MA


  3. Principal Scientist
    Average Salary: $162,436
    This role involves advanced research and development. It focuses on scientific projects in tech firms and labs. It requires deep expertise in the field. Companies often value the insights it provides.
    Find Principal Scientist jobs in Cambridge, MA


  4. Software Engineer
    Average Salary: $157,437
    This position involves designing and developing software applications. Tech companies and startups seek this skill. It's important for creating efficient and user-friendly software.
    Find Software Engineer jobs in Cambridge, MA


  5. Data Scientist
    Average Salary: $155,318
    This role analyzes and interprets complex data. It is vital for businesses to make informed decisions. Tech firms and research organizations depend on this expertise to drive innovation.
    Find Data Scientist jobs in Cambridge, MA


  6. Director
    Average Salary: $152,677
    This leadership role oversees operations in various sectors. It ensures the company meets its goals. This position requires strong management skills. Many industries value effective directors.
    Find Director jobs in Cambridge, MA


  7. Marketing Manager
    Average Salary: $144,130
    This role plans and executes marketing strategies. It helps businesses reach their target audience. It's important in consumer goods and tech companies. This role drives brand awareness and sales.
    Find Marketing Manager jobs in Cambridge, MA


  8. Program Manager
    Average Salary: $143,887
    This position manages and coordinates projects. It ensures they are completed on time and within budget. Companies in tech and healthcare rely on program managers to achieve their objectives.
    Find Program Manager jobs in Cambridge, MA


  9. Traveling Nurse
    Average Salary: $138,847
    This role involves providing care in various locations. It's essential for healthcare facilities. It allows nurses to gain diverse experiences. The flexibility makes this role attractive to many professionals.
    Find Traveling Nurse jobs in Cambridge, MA


  10. Pharmacist
    Average Salary: $137,880
    This role provides medication and health advice to patients. It's crucial in hospitals and pharmacies. This position requires attention to detail and strong interpersonal skills. It plays a vital role in patient care.
    Find Pharmacist jobs in Cambridge, MA

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

Job seekers in Cambridge, MA, can find good-paying roles that do not require a degree. These positions offer competitive salaries and can provide a solid start in various fields. For instance, roles like server and service team member often pay close to $50,000 annually. Other positions such as line cook, beauty consultant, and barista also offer good incomes, ranging from $37,000 to nearly $50,000. These jobs offer stability and the opportunity to gain valuable experience without the need for a college degree.
Graph displaying best paying job salaries in Cambridge, MA without a degree, highlighting Server with the highest at $49,099 and Housekeeping with the lowest at $37,545.

  1. Server
    Average Salary: $49,099
    A server works in restaurants, cafes, and bars, taking orders and serving food and drinks. This job requires a friendly and attentive approach. Local employers include top-tier establishments like The Charles Hotel.
    Find Server jobs in Cambridge, MA


  2. Service Team Member
    Average Salary: $47,579
    This role involves assisting customers in various services, ensuring their needs are met promptly. It is ideal for those who enjoy customer interaction. Companies such as Aramark offer many opportunities.
    Find Service Team Member jobs in Cambridge, MA


  3. Line Cook
    Average Salary: $41,708
    A line cook prepares food quickly and efficiently in a busy kitchen. This position demands strong multitasking skills. Working at spots like Legal Sea Foods can be rewarding.
    Find Line Cook jobs in Cambridge, MA


  4. Server Assistant
    Average Salary: $41,466
    Server assistants help with taking orders and setting up the dining area. This job is perfect for those who enjoy being part of a team. They often work in busy environments such as Boston Beer Company.
    Find Server Assistant jobs in Cambridge, MA


  5. Beauty Consultant
    Average Salary: $40,708
    Beauty consultants provide product recommendations and customer service. This role suits those passionate about beauty and skincare. Companies like Ulta Beauty offer many such positions.
    Find Beauty Consultant jobs in Cambridge, MA


  6. Barista
    Average Salary: $39,077
    A barista prepares and serves coffee and other beverages. This job is ideal for those who enjoy a fast-paced environment. Starbucks and Peet's Coffee are known employers in the area.
    Find Barista jobs in Cambridge, MA


  7. Ice Cream Vendor
    Average Salary: $39,000
    Ice cream vendors sell ice cream and related products. This position is perfect for those who love sweets and enjoy interacting with people. Local ice cream shops provide various opportunities.
    Find Ice Cream Vendor jobs in Cambridge, MA


  8. Dishwasher
    Average Salary: $38,582
    Dishwasher roles involve cleaning dishes and maintaining the kitchen area. This job is essential for the smooth operation of any food service. Places like Panera Bread often need dishwashers.
    Find Dishwasher jobs in Cambridge, MA


  9. Kitchen Team Member
    Average Salary: $37,596
    This role requires helping with food preparation and cooking. It's a great fit for those interested in food and cooking. Companies such as The Cheesecake Factory provide many opportunities.
    Find Kitchen Team Member jobs in Cambridge, MA


  10. Housekeeping
    Average Salary: $37,545
    Housekeepers ensure rooms and common areas are clean and tidy. This job is ideal for those who take pride in their work. Job opportunities are available in hotels like The Harvard Inn.
    Find Housekeeping jobs in Cambridge, MA

Which companies offer the top salaries in Cambridge, MA?

Job seekers in Cambridge, MA, have several top employers offering competitive salaries. Intellia Therapeutics leads the way with an average salary of about $220,737, making it one of the best-paying companies in the area. Following closely are Akebia Therapeutics, Bristol Myers Squibb, and Takeda Pharmaceuticals, all offering salaries that exceed $180,000 on average. These companies provide strong compensation packages, attracting talented professionals. Google, IPSEN, Apple, Sanofi, Novartis, and HubSpot also stand out with average salaries above $180,000. These figures reflect the high value placed on employees in Cambridge's vibrant job market.
Graph displaying company salaries in Cambridge, MA, highlighting Intellia Therapeutics with the highest at $220,737 and HubSpot with the lowest at $182,405.

  1. Intellia Therapeutics
    Average Salary: $220,737
    Intellia Therapeutics is a biotechnology company focused on the development of genome editing therapeutics. They are pioneers in CRISPR technology.


  2. Akebia Therapeutics
    Average Salary: $206,338
    Akebia Therapeutics develops novel therapeutics for kidney diseases. They aim to improve the quality of life for patients with chronic kidney diseases.


  3. Bristol Myers Squibb
    Average Salary: $199,683
    Bristol Myers Squibb is a global biopharmaceutical company that discovers, develops, and delivers innovative medicines to patients.


  4. Takeda Pharmaceuticals
    Average Salary: $191,651
    Takeda Pharmaceuticals is a research-based global biopharmaceutical company focused on rare diseases and gastroenterology.


  5. Sanofi
    Average Salary: $190,672
    Sanofi is a global healthcare leader dedicated to improving lives through the discovery, development, and distribution of medicines.


  6. Google
    Average Salary: $187,832
    Google is a technology giant known for its innovative products and services, including search engines, cloud computing, and artificial intelligence.


  7. IPSEN
    Average Salary: $186,324
    Ipsen is a global specialty-driven biopharmaceutical group focused on innovation and specialty care. The group develops and commercializes medicines in oncology, neurosciences, and rare diseases.


  8. Apple
    Average Salary: $183,046
    Apple is a leading technology company known for its innovative products like iPhones, Macs, and various consumer electronics.


  9. Novartis
    Average Salary: $182,870
    Novartis is a global leader in pharmaceuticals, focusing on the development and commercialization of innovative medicines.


  10. HubSpot
    Average Salary: $182,405
    HubSpot is a leading software company that offers marketing, sales, and customer service tools to help companies grow better.

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

The cost of living index in Cambridge, MA, surpasses the nationwide average, with housing prices leading at 90% above the national median. Specifically, housing stands at 190, while the nationwide average is 100. Groceries, utilities, transportation, healthcare, and miscellaneous costs also exceed the national average by 20%, 10%, 30%, 5%, and 25%, respectively. These figures illustrate that Cambridge, MA, presents a higher cost of living across various essential sectors compared to the national standard.
Cost of living comparison graph for Cambridge, MA vs. Nationwide: housing 90% higher, groceries 20% higher, utilities 10% higher, transportation 30% higher, healthcare 5% higher, miscellaneous 25% higher.

The cost of living in Cambridge, MA, shows significant variations compared to the nationwide average, which is set at 100. Housing costs in Cambridge are notably higher, with an index of 190. This indicates that housing expenses are nearly twice as expensive as the national average. Professionals considering a move to Cambridge should prepare for substantially higher housing costs.


Other expenses also reflect this trend. Groceries in Cambridge have an index of 120, meaning they are 20% more expensive than the national average. Utilities, while slightly elevated, stand at 110, indicating a 10% increase. Transportation costs follow closely, with an index of 130, representing a 30% increase. Healthcare costs, though important, remain relatively close to the average with an index of 105, only 5% higher. Miscellaneous costs also show a 25% increase, with an index of 125. Overall, while some expenses like healthcare stay near the national average, most others in Cambridge are significantly higher.

There are 1,640 job openings in Cambridge, MA, today!

View Jobs in Cambridge, MA

Take a deeper dive into the job market in Cambridge, MA

Discover what it's like to work in Cambridge, MA. Learn if you need a car, explore popular employers, the job market, and the best neighborhoods to live in.
City
Overview
Cambridge, MA
1,640 Job Openings

Win at hiring.

Visit the help center for any questions.
Contact Support
ReadySetHire icon
©2025 • ReadySetHire