Biotech, top universities, finance — knowledge economy capital. Here's how Data 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) | $139,000 | $105,700 | $180,800 |
| Junior (2–4 yrs) | $172,800 | $131,300 | $224,700 |
| Mid-Level (5–9 yrs) | $198,700 | $151,000 | $258,300 |
| Senior (10–14 yrs) | $238,400 | $181,200 | $309,900 |
| Veteran (15+ yrs) | $270,200 | $205,300 | $351,200 |
Highest-paying metros for Data Engineers — useful if you're weighing a relocation.
Top occupations by median pay across the Boston metro economy.
The average Data Engineer salary in the Boston metro is $198,700 per year as of 2026, with a typical range of $151,000 to $258,300 (25th–75th percentile). Top earners (90th percentile) make $327,900 or more.
Yes — Boston pays +2% relative to the Massachusetts state median for Data 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 Data Engineers — though cost of living in Boston is also typically elevated.
In Boston, the median Data Engineer salary of $198,700 typically corresponds to 5–9 years of experience (mid-level). Entry-level Data Engineers in Boston start around $139,000, while seniors (10+ years) reach $238,400 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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