How does Boston compare to other US cities for Software Engineer salaries?

Boston has a salary multiplier of 1.20x compared to the US average. Cost of living should also be considered when comparing locations.

Software Engineer Salary in Boston

What Software Engineers earn in Boston, plus take-home pay breakdown and comparison to other US cities.

Boston Salary Range$143k - $193k+20% vs US average

Monthly Take-Home$7,938 - $10,487After federal, Massachusetts state tax (6% 401k)

Find Software Engineer Jobs in Boston Calculate Take-Home Pay

Cost of Living in Boston

Boston has a cost of living index of 140% compared to the US average. This means everyday expenses are typically 40% higher than average, which is reflected in the higher salaries.

ComparisonBostonUS Average

Salary Multiplier120%100%

Cost of Living140%100%

Purchasing Power86%100%

Tax Note: Flat rate 5% (+ 4% surtax over $1M)

Salary by Experience in Boston

How Software Engineer salaries progress with experience in Boston:

Experience LevelSalary RangeMonthly Net

Junior (1-2 years)$72k - $204k$4,357 - $11,083

Mid-Level (3-5 years)$86k - $240k$5,089 - $12,926

Senior (5-8 years)$101k - $288k$5,820 - $15,187

Lead / Principal (8+ years)$115k - $336k$6,552 - $17,349

Staff / Principal$130k - $384k$7,278 - $19,511

Compare Software Engineer Salaries by City

How Boston compares to other US cities for Software Engineer roles:

San Francisco$161k - $217k+35% vs avg New York City$155k - $209k+30% vs avg Seattle$149k - $201k+25% vs avg Los Angeles$137k - $185k+15% vs avg Washington DC$137k - $185k+15% vs avg Austin$131k - $177k+10% vs avg

Related Roles in Boston

Data Analyst$66k - $144k Product Manager$108k - $240k UX Designer$84k - $192k Product Designer$96k - $216k

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Jobs in Boston

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US Salary Overview

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Take-Home Calculator

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the average Software Engineer salary in Boston?

The average Software Engineer salary in Boston is $143k - $193k, which is 20% above the US national average.

Is Boston a good place to work as a Software Engineer?

Boston offers competitive salaries for Software Engineer roles. With a purchasing power index of 86%, while salaries may be higher, the elevated cost of living should be considered.

What is the take-home pay for a Software Engineer in Boston?

Based on a salary of $143k - $193k, the estimated monthly take-home pay is $7,938 - $10,487 after federal, massachusetts state tax (6% 401k).

Salary data is based on industry research and job posting analysis. Actual salaries may vary. Use our take-home pay calculator for detailed breakdowns.