Paralegal Salary in Boston, MA
2024 BLS OEWS Data · Legal · COL Index: 152.1
$77,470
Median Salary
$81,980
Mean Salary
$50,934
COL-Adjusted
6,050
Employment
Salary Distribution
Percentile Breakdown
| Percentile | Salary | COL-Adjusted |
|---|---|---|
| 10th Percentile (Entry Level) | $55,560 | $36,529 |
| 25th Percentile | $62,270 | $40,940 |
| 50th Percentile (Median) | $77,470 | $50,934 |
| 75th Percentile | $95,090 | $62,518 |
| 90th Percentile (Top Earners) | $118,990 | $78,231 |
What Drives the Range
The $63,430 spread between the 10th and 90th percentiles for Paralegal 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 $77,470 median salary here has the same purchasing power as $50,934 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.