Social Worker Salary in Boston
2026 compensation data for Social Worker positions in Boston, MA. Ranges from $47,000 (entry-level) to $104,000 (senior). Median: $68,000.
Median (Mid)
$68,000
$32.69/hr
vs National
+5%
US: $65,000
COL Index
145
vs US avg = 100
Senior Max
$104,000
Top of band
Salary Ranges by Experience Level
Detailed Compensation Breakdown
| Level | Annual Min | Annual Median | Annual Max | Hourly (Median) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-Level (0–2 yrs) | $47,000 | $54,000 | $61,000 | $25.96/hr |
| Mid-Level (3–5 yrs) | $59,000 | $68,000 | $80,000 | $32.69/hr |
| Senior (6+ yrs) | $77,000 | $89,000 | $104,000 | $42.79/hr |
What Your Salary Is Really Worth in Boston
A mid-level social worker earning $68,000 in Boston has the same buying power as $47,000 in an average US city, after adjusting for the local cost of living (COL index 145).
Cost of living comparisons use a base of 100 (US national average). Higher index = higher housing, transport, and consumer prices.
About Social Worker Salaries in Boston
The median social worker salary in Boston, MA is $68,000 for mid-level professionals, which is 5% above the national median. With a cost of living index of 145 (national average = 100), Boston offers a high cost of living that partially offsets the salary premium.
Entry-level social workers in Boston can expect to earn between $47,000 and $61,000 (about $25.96/hour), while senior professionals with 6+ years of experience earn up to $104,000 ($104K annually, or about $50/hour).
These figures represent base salary only and do not include bonuses, equity, or benefits, which can add 20–50% to total compensation — especially at technology companies and in competitive markets like Boston.
Frequently Asked Questions: Social Worker Salary in Boston
What is the average Social Worker salary in Boston?+
The average Social Worker salary in Boston is $68,000 for a mid-level professional (3–5 years of experience). Entry-level pay starts around $54,000 and senior-level pay reaches $89,000.
How much does an entry-level social worker make in Boston?+
Entry-level social workers in Boston earn between $47,000 and $61,000, with a median of $54,000 per year (about $25.96/hour).
What is the hourly rate for a Social Worker in Boston?+
Based on a 2,080-hour work year, a Social Worker in Boston earns roughly $25.96/hour at entry-level, $32.69/hour at mid-level, and $42.79/hour at senior-level.
Is the Social Worker salary in Boston higher than the US average?+
Yes — Social Worker salaries in Boston are about 5% higher than the US national median of $65,000.
Does this include bonuses or equity?+
No — these figures are base salary only. Total compensation (base + bonus + equity + benefits) is typically 20–50% higher, and can be 2–3x at top technology and finance employers.
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