Cambridge vs Worcester: Civil Engineer Salary (2026)
Compare civil engineer salaries between Cambridge, MA and Worcester, MA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Cambridge, MA | Worcester, MA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $107,863▲ | $104,447 |
| Hourly Rate | $51.86▲ | $50.22 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $69,050 | $76,942▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $81,953 | $82,925▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $138,065▲ | $129,704 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $167,187▲ | $155,782 |
| Total Employed | 22 | 600▲ |
Verdict
Cambridge, MA offers better overall compensation for civil engineers, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Worcester.
The salary gap between Cambridge and Worcester is $3,416 (3.27%). Cambridge's median is +4.22% compared to the US national median of $103,492.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Cambridge spans $98,137,Worcester spans $78,840. Cambridge has a wider pay range, meaning more potential for high earners but also more variation.
Cost-of-Living Adjusted Comparison
After cost-of-living adjustment, Worcester ($101,877 effective) pays 2.48% more than Cambridge ($99,413 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Cambridge if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($107,863/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($167,187)
- ✓You prefer the Massachusetts area and lifestyle
Choose Worcester if…
- ✓Larger job market (600 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $101,877)
- ✓You prefer the Massachusetts area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, civil engineer salaries in Cambridge grew -16.7% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 27.5% growth in Worcester over the same period.
Cambridge, MA
$126,222 (2024) → $105,099 (2025)
Worcester, MA
$79,830 (2019) → $101,770 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Cambridge, MA
Worcester, MA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays civil engineers more: Cambridge or Worcester?
What is the hourly rate difference between Cambridge and Worcester?
Should I relocate from Cambridge to Worcester as a civil engineer?
What do entry-level civil engineers earn in Cambridge vs Worcester?
Related Comparisons
Written by Jordan Chen, P.E.
Career Analyst
Jordan Chen has 10 years of experience in structural engineering. He works primarily in urban infrastructure projects.
Methodology & Data Source
All salary figures are 2026 projections based on BLS OEWS May 2025 data. A 2.63% CAGR (derived from 6-year national BLS trends) was applied to estimate current compensation. Cost-of-living adjustments use BEA Regional Price Parity data. Actual salaries vary by employer, certifications, and experience.
Data Sources & Methodology
Source: BLS, OEWS , released .
Compiled and verified by Jordan Chen, P.E., a licensed civil engineer with 10+ years of clinical experience. · View source data at BLS.gov