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METRO DATA PROFILE · 2025

Architects salary in Boston, Massachusetts

Metro-level median, range, and employment from BLS Occupational Employment Statistics for the Boston metropolitan area. Skills and task data from O*NET. State and national figures shown for context.

Adrian Serafin, founder and editor of RateOrchardBy Adrian SerafinFounderUpdated June 12, 2026
Median annual$119,120
Mean annual$118,960
Range (10th to 90th)$83,220 to $161,740
Boston, Massachusetts employment3,930
State vs national+20.7% vs national

Salary distribution

Where Boston architects fall on the wage curve.

Annual wage distribution

Shaded band = interquartile range (where most full-time workers fall)

10TH$83,22025TH$87,050MEDIAN$119,12075TH$127,16090TH$161,740

The middle 50% of workers earn between $87,050 and $127,160, with a median of $119,120.

Typical entry

  • Education

    Bachelor's degree

  • Experience

    Internship/residency

  • On-the-job training

    None

Top skills (O*NET)

  • Design

    Knowledge

    4.9 / 5

  • Building and Construction

    Knowledge

    4.8 / 5

  • Visualization

    Ability

    4.1 / 5

  • Public Safety and Security

    Knowledge

    4.1 / 5

  • Engineering and Technology

    Knowledge

    4.0 / 5

  • Operations Analysis

    Technical

    4.0 / 5

  • Computers and Electronics

    Knowledge

    4.0 / 5

  • Speaking

    Basic skill

    4.0 / 5

Common tasks (O*NET)

  1. 01

    Develop final construction plans that include aesthetic representations of the structure or details for its construction.

  2. 02

    Prepare scale drawings or architectural designs, using computer-aided design or other tools.

  3. 03

    Prepare information regarding design, structure specifications, materials, color, equipment, estimated costs, or construction time.

  4. 04

    Consult with clients to determine functional or spatial requirements of structures.

  5. 05

    Meet with clients to review or discuss architectural drawings.

  6. 06

    Integrate engineering elements into unified architectural designs.

  7. 07

    Monitor the work of specialists, such as electrical engineers, mechanical engineers, interior designers, or sound specialists to ensure optimal form or function of designs or final structures.

  8. 08

    Plan layouts of structural architectural projects.

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Frequently asked questions

What is the median salary for Architects in Boston, Massachusetts?
According to BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, the median annual wage for Architects in the Boston metropolitan area is $119,120.
Does Boston pay more than the Massachusetts state average for Architects?
The Boston metro median is +1.5% versus the Massachusetts state median of $117,330.
How does Boston compare to the national median for Architects?
The Boston metro median is +20.7% versus the BLS national figure of $98,731.
What is the salary range for Architects in Boston?
BLS reports the 10th-percentile annual wage at $83,220 and the 90th-percentile at $161,740 for the Boston metro area.
What education is required for Architects?
BLS lists the typical entry-level education as Bachelor's degree. Many employers also weigh prior experience and credentials.
Disclaimer

Information on this page is for general educational purposes only. It is not career, financial, or tax advice. BLS metro estimates reflect the Boston CBSA boundary for the reference year shown and may not match individual offers, employer-specific ranges, or current market conditions. Confirm with a licensed professional before making career or compensation decisions.