Lawyer Salary in Boston, MA
2024 BLS OEWS Data · Legal · COL Index: 152.1
$194,740
Median Salary
$226,830
Mean Salary
$128,034
COL-Adjusted
18,900
Employment
Salary Distribution
Percentile Breakdown
| Percentile | Salary | COL-Adjusted |
|---|---|---|
| 10th Percentile (Entry Level) | $83,860 | $55,135 |
| 25th Percentile | $122,660 | $80,644 |
| 50th Percentile (Median) | $194,740 | $128,034 |
| 75th Percentile | $258,920 | $170,230 |
| 90th Percentile (Top Earners) | $342,354 | $225,085 |
What Drives the Range
The $258,494 spread between the 10th and 90th percentiles for Lawyer 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 $194,740 median salary here has the same purchasing power as $128,034 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.