Civil Engineer Salary in Boston, MA
2024 BLS OEWS Data · Engineering · COL Index: 152.1
$104,750
Median Salary
$116,860
Mean Salary
$68,869
COL-Adjusted
8,300
Employment
Salary Distribution
Percentile Breakdown
| Percentile | Salary | COL-Adjusted |
|---|---|---|
| 10th Percentile (Entry Level) | $78,790 | $51,801 |
| 25th Percentile | $83,700 | $55,030 |
| 50th Percentile (Median) | $104,750 | $68,869 |
| 75th Percentile | $131,330 | $86,345 |
| 90th Percentile (Top Earners) | $167,630 | $110,210 |
What Drives the Range
The $88,840 spread between the 10th and 90th percentiles for Civil Engineer positions in Boston, MA reflects several factors. Entry-level professionals and those in smaller organizations typically fall in the lower quartiles, while senior specialists, those with in-demand certifications, and employees at large enterprises command salaries in the upper percentiles.
Boston, MA's cost-of-living index of 152.1 means that a $104,750 median salary here has the same purchasing power as $68,869 in an average-cost U.S. city. Despite the higher cost of living, this metro area offers a deep talent pool and typically higher total compensation when including equity and bonuses.