Paralegals and Legal Assistants Salary in Boston, MA-NH
BLS Occupational Employment & Wage Statistics • May 2025 • Boston-Cambridge-Newton, MA-NH
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In Boston, MA-NH, paralegals and legal assistants earn a median annual salary of $77,470, which translates to approximately $37.25 per hour. This figure is notably higher than the national median for this occupation, which stands at $61,010. When compared to the local area's median household income of $112,484, the earnings for paralegals and legal assistants are slightly lower but still represent a substantial portion of typical household incomes. The difference suggests that while these professionals earn well above average relative to their national counterparts, they may often complement another source of income within households in this region.
For entry-level paralegals and legal assistants in Boston, MA-NH, the starting salary typically begins at or near the 10th percentile mark of $55,560 annually. As experience accumulates, earnings increase significantly; those earning around the 75th percentile make approximately $95,090 per year, with top earners in the 90th percentile reaching up to $118,990. This substantial pay progression reflects increased expertise, specialization within certain legal fields, or roles that demand extensive responsibility and decision-making capabilities. Factors such as additional certifications, advanced education, and the specific law firms' size and focus also contribute to driving these salary differences.
Salary percentile breakdown
Boston economic context
Frequently asked questions
How much do Paralegals and Legal Assistants make per hour in Boston?
The median hourly wage for Paralegals and Legal Assistants in Boston, MA-NH is $37.25, based on BLS OEWS 2025 data. Top earners (90th percentile) make $60.80 or more per hour.
Is Boston above or below average for Paralegals and Legal Assistants salaries?
The median Paralegals and Legal Assistants salary in Boston, MA-NH is 27% above the national median of $61,010. The national figure is from BLS OEWS 2025 data covering all US metropolitan areas.
What is the entry-level salary for Paralegals and Legal Assistants in Boston?
Entry-level Paralegals and Legal Assistants (10th percentile) earn around $55,560 per year in Boston, MA-NH. The 25th percentile — typically workers with 1–3 years of experience — earn approximately $62,270.