In Boston, MA, Human Resources Specialists earn a median of $79,876 a year - about 25% above the U.S. median of $64,000. Among the 50 metros tracked here for this role, that ranks #7.
What that pay is worth in Boston
Local prices run 108 on the BEA cost-of-living index (U.S. = 100), so a $79,876 salary buys less than it looks - about $73,778 in national-average buying power.
Can Human Resources Specialists afford a home in Boston?
A typical Boston home runs about $710,400 - 8.9 times the average Human Resources Specialist salary, a stretch against the classic 3x rule of thumb. Median rent near $2,093/mo takes roughly 31% of gross pay - above the 30% comfort line.
The Human Resources Specialist pay ladder in Boston
Entry-level (10th percentile) Human Resources Specialists earn about $49,080; the top 10% reach $101,432 - a $52,352 spread, moderate for this field. Most of that gap comes down to experience, employer, and how hard you negotiate.
Compare Boston with other cities
See the full Human Resources Specialist salary by city ranking to weigh Boston against the other metros on both pay and cost-adjusted value, or use the cost-of-living calculator to compare any two cities directly.
Frequently asked questions
How much do Human Resources Specialists make in Boston?
The average Human Resources Specialist in Boston, MA earns about $79,876 per year, 24.8% above the national average of $64,000.
What is the take-home pay for Human Resources Specialists in Boston after taxes?
After federal and MA taxes, this $79,876 salary is worth about $61,028 a year - roughly $5,085 a month in take-home pay, an effective tax rate near 24%.
What do the highest-paid Human Resources Specialists earn in Boston?
The top 10% of Human Resources Specialists in Boston earn about $101,432 a year, versus about $49,080 for the bottom 10%.
Can Human Resources Specialists afford a home in Boston?
A typical Boston home runs about $710,400 - roughly 8.9x this salary, a stretch by the 3x rule, so budgeting discipline matters.