What is the median salary for Paralegals and Legal Assistants in Boston, Massachusetts?

According to BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, the median annual wage for Paralegals and Legal Assistants in the Boston metropolitan area is $79,850.

Does Boston pay more than the Massachusetts state average for Paralegals and Legal Assistants?

The Boston metro median is +2.8% versus the Massachusetts state median of $77,640.

How does Boston compare to the national median for Paralegals and Legal Assistants?

The Boston metro median is +22.2% versus the BLS national figure of $65,349.

What is the salary range for Paralegals and Legal Assistants in Boston?

BLS reports the 10th-percentile annual wage at $50,340 and the 90th-percentile at $126,470 for the Boston metro area.

What education is required for Paralegals and Legal Assistants?

BLS lists the typical entry-level education as Associate's degree. Many employers also weigh prior experience and credentials.

Paralegals and Legal Assistants Salary in Boston, Massachusetts: $80k Median ($50k–$126k Range)

Median annual$79,850

Mean annual$84,580

Range (10th to 90th)$50,340 to $126,470

Boston, Massachusetts employment6,300

State vs national+22.2% vs national

Salary distribution

Where Boston paralegals and legal assistants fall on the wage curve.

Annual wage distribution

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

The middle 50% of workers earn between $63,850 and $98,470, with a median of $79,850.

Typical entry

Education
Associate's degree
Experience
None
On-the-job training
None

Top skills (O*NET)

Written Comprehension
Ability
4.1 / 5
Administrative
Knowledge
4.1 / 5
English Language
Knowledge
4.1 / 5
Oral Expression
Ability
4.0 / 5
Oral Comprehension
Ability
4.0 / 5
Reading Comprehension
Basic skill
4.0 / 5
Written Expression
Ability
4.0 / 5
Law and Government
Knowledge
3.9 / 5

Common tasks (O*NET)

01
Prepare affidavits or other documents, such as legal correspondence, and organize and maintain documents in paper or electronic filing system.
02
Prepare legal documents, including briefs, pleadings, appeals, wills, contracts, and real estate closing statements.
03
Prepare for trial by performing tasks such as organizing exhibits.
04
Investigate facts and law of cases and search pertinent sources, such as public records and internet sources, to determine causes of action and to prepare cases.
05
Meet with clients and other professionals to discuss details of case.
06
File pleadings with court clerk.
07
Gather and analyze research data, such as statutes, decisions, and legal articles, codes, and documents.
08
Direct and coordinate law office activity, including delivery of subpoenas.

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Frequently asked questions

What is the median salary for Paralegals and Legal Assistants in Boston, Massachusetts?: According to BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, the median annual wage for Paralegals and Legal Assistants in the Boston metropolitan area is $79,850.
Does Boston pay more than the Massachusetts state average for Paralegals and Legal Assistants?: The Boston metro median is +2.8% versus the Massachusetts state median of $77,640.
How does Boston compare to the national median for Paralegals and Legal Assistants?: The Boston metro median is +22.2% versus the BLS national figure of $65,349.
What is the salary range for Paralegals and Legal Assistants in Boston?: BLS reports the 10th-percentile annual wage at $50,340 and the 90th-percentile at $126,470 for the Boston metro area.
What education is required for Paralegals and Legal Assistants?: BLS lists the typical entry-level education as Associate'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.