Salaries in Cambridge, MA

Updated on Mar 08, 2025
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What is the average salary in Cambridge, MA?

The average salary in Cambridge, MA is $83,954 per year.

In Cambridge, MA, the average yearly salary stands at $83,954. The salary distribution reveals a range of earning potentials across various job positions. A significant 28% of jobs earn around $32,000, which can be a good starting point for entry-level roles.


As experience grows, so do the salaries. About 20.1% of jobs offer salaries around $49,182, while 13.7% provide approximately $66,364. Mid-level positions show promising salaries, such as $83,545 for 10.3% of jobs, and $100,727 for 5.5% of roles.


For professionals with more experience and specialized skills, salaries increase significantly. The top earners enjoy salaries around $135,091 for 4% of positions, and those at the peak of the pay scale can earn an impressive $221,000.


Overall, Cambridge offers a healthy job market with competitive salaries, making it an attractive place for job seekers in various fields.

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What are the best paying jobs in Cambridge, MA?

The highest paying jobs in Cambridge, MA offer impressive salaries across various fields. Top roles include CDL Driver with an average salary of $215,862 and Regulatory Affairs Director earning around $189,460. Other well-paying positions include Principal Scientist, Program Director, and Software Engineer, with salaries ranging from $130,788 to $147,281. Job seekers targeting high-income opportunities in Cambridge can explore these rewarding career options.
Graph displaying best paying job salaries in Cambridge, MA, highlighting CDL Driver with the highest at $215,862 and Marketing Manager with the lowest at $119,716.
  1. CDL Driver
    Average Salary: $215,862
    CDL drivers operate large trucks to transport goods across the country. Companies like UPS and FedEx hire these drivers to ensure timely deliveries. The role requires a commercial driver's license and offers competitive pay with overtime opportunities.
    Find CDL Driver jobs in Cambridge, MA


  2. Regulatory Affairs Director
    Average Salary: $189,460
    In this role, professionals navigate the complex landscape of regulations in the pharmaceutical and biotech sectors. Companies like Biogen and Moderna rely on these experts to ensure compliance with FDA guidelines. The position often involves strategy development and collaboration with various departments.
    Find Regulatory Affairs Director jobs in Cambridge, MA


  3. Principal Scientist
    Average Salary: $147,281
    Principal scientists lead research projects, focusing on innovation in fields like pharmaceuticals and biotech. Organizations such as Harvard Labs and MIT are known for their cutting-edge work and seek leaders who can drive scientific discoveries. The job includes mentoring junior staff and presenting findings to stakeholders.
    Find Principal Scientist jobs in Cambridge, MA


  4. Program Director
    Average Salary: $133,430
    Program directors oversee project management and strategy implementation in organizations. Non-profits and educational institutions in the area value individuals who can coordinate various teams and initiatives effectively. This role often involves budgeting and program evaluation to ensure success.
    Find Program Director jobs in Cambridge, MA


  5. Software Engineer
    Average Salary: $130,788
    Software engineers develop applications and systems that solve problems for companies in diverse industries. In the tech hub of Cambridge, firms like Google and HubSpot actively seek skilled engineers. The job offers flexibility, with opportunities for remote work and growth in a dynamic environment.
    Find Software Engineer jobs in Cambridge, MA


  6. Finance Manager
    Average Salary: $124,846
    Finance managers play a crucial role in overseeing budgets and financial planning. Businesses in the area, including Fidelity Investments and Charles Schwab, look for professionals who can enhance profitability. This role requires strong analytical skills and the ability to work with various teams.
    Find Finance Manager jobs in Cambridge, MA


  7. Traveling Nurse
    Average Salary: $123,845
    Traveling nurses provide care in different healthcare settings, adapting to the needs of various communities. Hospitals and clinics in Cambridge often offer contracts to these nurses for short-term assignments. This job allows healthcare professionals to experience new environments while earning competitive pay.
    Find Traveling Nurse jobs in Cambridge, MA


  8. Electrical Engineer
    Average Salary: $123,482
    Electrical engineers design and develop electrical systems and equipment, working for top companies in the technology and energy sectors. Organizations like General Electric and Raytheon seek skilled engineers to advance their projects. The work often combines hands-on problem-solving with innovative design concepts.
    Find Electrical Engineer jobs in Cambridge, MA


  9. Engineer
    Average Salary: $121,933
    Engineers focus on designing, building, and maintaining systems that improve efficiency and functionality. In the vibrant Cambridge area, firms such as MIT and various tech startups hire engineers for their skills. The profession offers diverse opportunities across multiple industries, from construction to software development.
    Find Engineer jobs in Cambridge, MA


  10. Marketing Manager
    Average Salary: $119,716
    Marketing managers develop strategies to promote products and services, driving brand awareness and sales. Companies in the area, including HubSpot and Canva, prioritize skilled managers who can adapt to changing market trends. This role often involves teamwork and creativity to achieve effective campaigns.
    Find Marketing Manager jobs in Cambridge, MA

What are the best paying jobs in Cambridge, MA without a degree?

In Cambridge, MA, several well-paying jobs do not require a degree. Top roles include Service Team Member, Cake Decorator, and Server, with average salaries around $44,000. Positions like Line Cook and Barista also offer competitive pay, making them great options for job seekers looking to enter the workforce without a formal degree.
Graph displaying best paying job salaries in Cambridge, MA without a degree, highlighting Service Team Member with the highest at $44,693 and Recreation Assistant with the lowest at $36,653.
  1. Service Team Member
    Average Salary: $44,693
    This role involves providing excellent customer service and assisting with various tasks in a fast-paced environment. Employees often work at diverse establishments that prioritize a positive dining experience. Popular companies in the area often look for friendly individuals who can thrive in team settings.
    Find Service Team Member jobs in Cambridge, MA


  2. Cake Decorator
    Average Salary: $44,536
    Individuals in this position create beautiful cakes and desserts for special occasions. This job allows for creative expression while working in bakeries or catering companies that serve the local community. Craftsmanship and attention to detail are key to ensuring customer satisfaction.
    Find Cake Decorator jobs in Cambridge, MA


  3. Server
    Average Salary: $44,189
    Serving food and beverages to customers is the main duty in this position. Employees often work in restaurants or cafes where they engage with patrons and ensure a pleasant dining experience. Strong communication skills and a friendly attitude lead to better tips and job satisfaction.
    Find Server jobs in Cambridge, MA


  4. Line Cook
    Average Salary: $41,301
    Line cooks prepare meals efficiently while maintaining high standards of food quality. Working in a kitchen, they collaborate with other staff to deliver dishes promptly. Many restaurants in the area seek dedicated individuals who can keep up in fast-paced environments.
    Find Line Cook jobs in Cambridge, MA


  5. Bar Back
    Average Salary: $40,456
    Bar backs support bartenders by restocking supplies and maintaining clean work areas. This role offers opportunities for advancement within the food and beverage industry. Local bars and restaurants value reliable team members who help create enjoyable experiences for guests.
    Find Bar Back jobs in Cambridge, MA


  6. Server Assistant
    Average Salary: $40,122
    This position supports servers by ensuring that customers receive their orders timely and accurately. Responsibilities include clearing tables and assisting with food delivery. Many restaurants in the area seek enthusiastic team players to enhance the service experience.
    Find Server Assistant jobs in Cambridge, MA


  7. Barista
    Average Salary: $39,783
    Baristas prepare and serve coffee beverages while creating a welcoming atmosphere for guests. This job allows for interaction with customers and the chance to refine coffee-making skills. Cafes and coffee shops in the area appreciate friendly faces that elevate the coffee experience.
    Find Barista jobs in Cambridge, MA


  8. Housekeeping
    Average Salary: $39,545
    Housekeeping staff maintain cleanliness and organization in hotels and facilities. They ensure that guest rooms and shared spaces meet high standards of hygiene. Many establishments in the area hire detail-oriented individuals who take pride in their work.
    Find Housekeeping jobs in Cambridge, MA


  9. Food Service Aide
    Average Salary: $37,062
    This position involves assisting in food preparation and serving in various facilities, such as schools or hospitals. It plays a crucial role in ensuring that nutrition standards are met. Many local organizations appreciate team members dedicated to providing quality service.
    Find Food Service Aide jobs in Cambridge, MA


  10. Recreation Assistant
    Average Salary: $36,653
    Recreation assistants help organize and implement programs for community activities. They work in recreational facilities or community centers to foster social interaction and wellness. Many programs value teamwork and enthusiasm in creating enjoyable experiences for participants.
    Find Recreation Assistant jobs in Cambridge, MA

Which companies offer the top salaries in Cambridge, MA?

Some of the best-paying companies in Cambridge, MA include HubSpot, which offers an average salary of $174,438, and Takeda Pharmaceuticals with an average of $165,928. Other top companies such as Novartis and IPSEN also provide competitive salaries, making Cambridge a great place for job seekers looking for attractive compensation packages.
Graph displaying company salaries in Cambridge, MA, highlighting HubSpot with the highest at $174,438 and GSK with the lowest at $132,157.
  1. HubSpot
    Average Salary: $174,438
    HubSpot is a leading marketing and sales software company, focused on helping businesses grow through inbound marketing.


  2. Takeda Pharmaceuticals
    Average Salary: $165,928
    Takeda is a global pharmaceutical company dedicated to improving health and well-being through innovative medicines.


  3. Novartis
    Average Salary: $165,589
    Novartis is a healthcare company that focuses on discovering new medicines and improving patient outcomes.


  4. IPSEN
    Average Salary: $160,232
    IPSEN is a global biopharmaceutical group offering innovative therapeutic solutions in oncology and other specialty areas.


  5. IBM
    Average Salary: $153,184
    IBM is a technology and consulting company, known for its powerful software and systems that drive business innovation.


  6. Philips
    Average Salary: $146,597
    Philips is a global leader in health technology, committed to improving people's lives through meaningful innovation.


  7. Pfizer
    Average Salary: $143,629
    Pfizer is a research-based pharmaceutical company focused on developing medicines and vaccines for a healthier world.


  8. Biogen
    Average Salary: $142,668
    Biogen is a biotechnology company that develops treatments for neurological diseases and disorders.


  9. Sarepta Therapeutics
    Average Salary: $141,373
    Sarepta is a biotechnology company focused on developing precision genetic medicine for rare diseases.


  10. GSK
    Average Salary: $132,157
    GSK is a global healthcare company that researches and develops a broad range of innovative medicines and vaccines.

How does the cost of living in Cambridge, MA compare to the national average?

Cambridge, MA has a cost of living index of 137.6, which is 37.6% higher than the nationwide average of 100. This indicates that living expenses in Cambridge are significantly above the typical costs found across the country.
Cost of living comparison graph for Cambridge, MA vs. Nationwide: housing 126% higher, groceries 20% higher, utilities 18% higher, transportation 7% higher, healthcare 10% higher, miscellaneous 25% higher.

Cambridge, MA has a cost of living index significantly higher than the nationwide average of 100. In fact, the housing cost in Cambridge stands at an impressive 226.6, which is 126.6% above the national average. This substantial difference highlights the demand for housing in the area, driven by its vibrant culture and strong job market.


Other aspects of living in Cambridge also show increased costs. Groceries are rated at 120.4, which is 20.4% higher than the national average. Utilities and healthcare costs are also above average, with indexes of 118.0 and 110.5, respectively. Transportation, while lower than housing, still sits at 107.0, meaning it is 7% higher than the national average. Despite these costs, many professionals still find the opportunities in Cambridge worth the investment, as the city offers numerous job prospects and a high quality of life.

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Pasadena, TX
Pasadena, TX has a cost of living index of 92, which is 8% lower than the nationwide average of 100. This means residents enjoy lower costs in housing, groceries, and transportation compared to other areas in the country.
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Pearland, TX
The cost of living index in Pearland, TX is 98, which is 2% lower than the nationwide average of 100. This means that living in Pearland can be more affordable compared to many other areas in the country.
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Pembroke Pines, FL
Pembroke Pines, FL has a cost of living index of 107, which is 7% higher than the nationwide average of 100. The most significant factor is housing, at 125, making it relatively more expensive in this category.
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Pflugerville, TX
Pflugerville, TX has a cost of living index of 93, which is 7% lower than the nationwide average of 100. This makes Pflugerville a more affordable option for professionals seeking a balanced lifestyle.
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Pinellas Park, FL
Pinellas Park, FL has a cost of living index of 96, which is 4% lower than the nationwide average of 100. This makes it an affordable option compared to many other areas in the country.
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Plano, TX
The cost of living index in Plano, TX is 103, which is 3% higher than the nationwide average of 100. Most categories, like housing at 9% above average, contribute to this increase while groceries and healthcare remain below the national average.
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Plantation, FL
Plantation, FL has a cost of living index of 103, which is 3% higher than the nationwide average of 100. This means living in Plantation is a bit more expensive than the average across the United States.
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Pomona, CA
The cost of living index in Pomona, CA is 115, which is 15% higher than the nationwide average of 100. This means residents may expect to pay more for housing, groceries, utilities, transportation, and healthcare compared to other areas in the country.
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Pompano Beach, FL
Pompano Beach, FL has a cost of living index of 102. This is 2% higher than the nationwide average of 100.
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Puyallup, WA
Puyallup, WA has a cost of living index of 102.5, which is 2.5% higher than the nationwide average of 100. This indicates that living in Puyallup is slightly more expensive than the average U.S. city.
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Quincy, MA
Quincy, MA has a cost of living index of 117, which is 17% higher than the nationwide average of 100. Housing costs lead the way, being 30% higher than average, while healthcare remains on par with the national figures.
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Rancho Cordova, CA
The cost of living index in Rancho Cordova, CA is 119, which is 19% higher than the nationwide average of 100. This means that living expenses in Rancho Cordova can be higher, especially in areas like housing and groceries.
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Redmond, WA
Redmond, WA has a cost of living index of 130, which is 30% higher than the nationwide average of 100. This means that living in Redmond is more expensive, particularly in housing and miscellaneous expenses.
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Renton, WA
The cost of living index in Renton, WA is 108, which is 8% higher than the nationwide average of 100. This means residents pay more for housing and groceries but benefit from lower utility costs compared to the national average.
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Richardson, TX
Richardson, TX has a cost of living index of 99, which is 1% below the nationwide average of 100. This means living in Richardson is slightly more affordable, especially in areas like housing and transportation.
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Riverside, CA
The cost of living index in Riverside, CA is 123, which is 23% higher than the nationwide average of 100. This suggests that living in Riverside can be more expensive, particularly in housing and transportation.
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Roseville, CA
The cost of living index in Roseville, CA is 114, indicating it is 14% higher than the nationwide average of 100. This reflects higher housing, grocery, and transportation costs compared to most other places in the country.
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Round Rock, TX
Round Rock, TX has a cost of living index of 94, which is 6% lower than the nationwide average of 100. This makes it an affordable option for those looking to relocate.
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Sacramento, CA
Sacramento, CA has a cost of living index of 117, which is 17% higher than the nationwide average of 100. This increase reflects higher housing and utility costs, making Sacramento more expensive than many other cities in the U.S.
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Sammamish, WA
Sammamish, WA has a cost of living index of 145.1, which is 45.1% higher than the nationwide average of 100. This difference highlights the relatively higher expenses residents face in housing, groceries, and other categories compared to most places in the country.
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San Antonio, TX
San Antonio, TX has a cost of living index of 92, which is 8% lower than the nationwide average of 100. This makes San Antonio an affordable option for those looking to live in a large city.
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San Diego, CA
San Diego, CA, has a cost of living index of 132, which is 32% higher than the nationwide average of 100. This increase reflects higher expenses in housing, groceries, and transportation compared to other areas in the country.
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San Jose, CA
San Jose, CA has a cost of living index of 134.2, which is 34.2% higher than the nationwide average of 100. This makes it important for job seekers to consider the higher expenses when looking for positions in this city.
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San Marcos, CA
San Marcos, CA has a cost of living index of 115, which is 15% higher than the nationwide average of 100. This means residents can expect to pay more for housing, groceries, and other expenses compared to the rest of the country.
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San Marcos, TX
San Marcos, TX has a cost of living index of 94.6, which is 5.4% lower than the nationwide average of 100. This lower index means that living expenses in San Marcos are generally more affordable than the national standard.
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Sanford, FL
The cost of living index in Sanford, FL is 7% lower than the nationwide average, which is set at 100. This offers residents an affordable lifestyle compared to many other areas in the country.
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Santa Clara, CA
Santa Clara, CA has a cost of living index of 145, which is 45% higher than the nationwide average of 100. This means living in Santa Clara can be more expensive, particularly for housing and groceries.
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Santa Clarita, CA
The cost of living index in Santa Clarita, CA is 130%, which is 30% higher than the nationwide average of 100. Housing costs make up the biggest difference, sitting at 70% above the national average.
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Schertz, TX
Schertz, TX has a cost of living index of 93.9, which is 6.1% lower than the nationwide average of 100. This makes Schertz an affordable option for those considering relocation.
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Seattle, WA
Seattle, WA has a cost of living index of 121. This is 21% higher than the nationwide average of 100.
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Shoreline, WA
Shoreline, WA has a cost of living index of 115, which is 15% higher than the nationwide average of 100. This means residents may spend more on housing, groceries, and transportation compared to the rest of the country.
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Somerville, MA
Somerville, MA has a cost of living index of 130.8, which is 30.8% higher than the nationwide average of 100. While housing costs are significantly above average at 58.5% more, other categories like groceries and healthcare also show higher expenses.
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Spokane Valley, WA
Spokane Valley, WA has a cost of living index of 95, which is 5% lower than the nationwide average of 100. This means housing, groceries, and transportation are more affordable, making it an attractive option for job seekers.
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Spokane, WA
Spokane, WA has a cost of living index of 95, which is 5% lower than the nationwide average of 100. This makes it an affordable option for those looking to relocate while pursuing job opportunities.
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Springfield, MA
Springfield, MA has a cost of living index of 91, which is 9% lower than the nationwide average of 100. This means residents enjoy lower housing and living costs compared to many other areas in the country.
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Sugar Land, TX
The cost of living index in Sugar Land, TX stands at 103, which is 3% higher than the nationwide average of 100. Housing costs are notably higher at 17%, while groceries and transportation are below average.
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Sunnyvale, CA
The cost of living index in Sunnyvale, CA is 157, which is 57% higher than the nationwide average of 100. This means residents face higher expenses for housing, groceries, and other necessities compared to most other areas in the country.
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Tacoma, WA
The cost of living index in Tacoma, WA is 115, which is 15% higher than the nationwide average of 100. This increase mainly comes from higher housing and transportation costs.
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Tallahassee, FL
The cost of living index in Tallahassee, FL is 92.5, which is 7.5% lower than the nationwide average of 100. This makes Tallahassee an affordable option for those considering relocation.
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Tampa, FL
Tampa, FL has a cost of living index of 100.6, which is slightly above the nationwide average of 100, indicating a more affordable cost for housing, utilities, and healthcare compared to other areas in the country.
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The Colony, TX
The cost of living index in The Colony, TX is 1% below the nationwide average, scoring 99 overall. This means residents enjoy a more affordable lifestyle compared to many other parts of the country.
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The Woodlands, TX
The Woodlands, TX, has a cost of living index of 98, which is 2% lower than the nationwide average of 100. This makes it a more affordable option for professional job seekers looking to relocate.
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Torrance, CA
Torrance, CA has a cost of living index of 130, which is 30% higher than the nationwide average of 100. This reflects increased costs in housing, groceries, and transportation compared to other areas across the country.
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Tukwila, WA
Tukwila, WA has a cost of living index of 106, which is 6% higher than the nationwide average of 100. Housing costs are notably higher at 32% above average, while utilities remain lower than average at 2% less.
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Vancouver, WA
Vancouver, WA has a cost of living index of 106, which is 6% higher than the nationwide average of 100. This indicates that living in Vancouver is relatively more expensive than the average in the U.S.
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Vista, CA
The cost of living index in Vista, CA is 118.4, which is 18.4% higher than the nationwide average of 100. This highlights the higher expenses residents can expect in housing, groceries, and healthcare compared to other parts of the country.
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Westfield, MA
The cost of living index in Westfield, MA stands at 99, which is 1% lower than the nationwide average of 100. This means that overall, living in Westfield is slightly more affordable compared to the national level.
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Weston, FL
Weston, FL has a cost of living index of 115, which is 15% higher than the nationwide average of 100. This increase is mainly driven by higher housing costs, which are 40% above the national average.
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Worcester, MA
Worcester, MA has a cost of living index of 94, which is 6% lower than the nationwide average of 100. This lower index indicates that living expenses in Worcester are generally more affordable compared to many other places in the country.
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There are 2,008 job openings in Cambridge, MA, today!

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Cambridge, MA
2,008 job openings