Biotech, top universities, finance — knowledge economy capital. Here's how Chemical Engineers in Boston get paid in 2026.
How pay scales with career stage in the Boston metro market.
| Experience | Median 2026 | 25th % | 75th % |
|---|---|---|---|
| Entry (0–1 yr) | $116,600 | $88,600 | $151,700 |
| Junior (2–4 yrs) | $145,000 | $110,200 | $188,600 |
| Mid-Level (5–9 yrs) | $166,700 | $126,700 | $216,800 |
| Senior (10–14 yrs) | $200,000 | $152,000 | $260,100 |
| Veteran (15+ yrs) | $226,700 | $172,300 | $294,800 |
Highest-paying metros for Chemical Engineers — useful if you're weighing a relocation.
Top occupations by median pay across the Boston metro economy.
The average Chemical Engineer salary in the Boston metro is $166,700 per year as of 2026, with a typical range of $126,700 to $216,800 (25th–75th percentile). Top earners (90th percentile) make $275,100 or more.
Yes — Boston pays +2% relative to the Massachusetts state median for Chemical Engineers. Major metros typically concentrate higher-paying employers and command a wage premium over rural and small-city areas in the same state.
Boston vs. national: +33%. That puts Boston among the stronger US markets for Chemical Engineers — though cost of living in Boston is also typically elevated.
In Boston, the median Chemical Engineer salary of $166,700 typically corresponds to 5–9 years of experience (mid-level). Entry-level Chemical Engineers in Boston start around $116,600, while seniors (10+ years) reach $200,000 or more.
Metro medians are useful benchmarks — but your exact number depends on your experience, education, and the specific employer. Run the free calculator for a personalized read.
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