Salaries in Springfield, MA

You might’ve heard Springfield is a cheap place to live, but here’s the twist: the median income is so low that even a bargain feels tight. The city’s cost of living index sits at 98.4—just under the national average—but with a median household income of only $47,101, you’re working harder for every dollar. A one-bedroom apartment runs about $1,115 a month, which eats up a big chunk of that paycheck.

So what does that mean for your wallet? The average salary here is $68,772, and after adjusting for the local cost of living, it bumps up to $69,890. That’s not bad, but it’s not a windfall either. You’re getting more house for your money than in Boston, sure, but don’t expect to save aggressively unless you’re in one of the top-paying roles. It’s a trade-off: affordability for lower overall earnings.

Springfield’s economy leans on healthcare, education, and advanced manufacturing. Baystate Health is a massive employer, and the city’s proximity to the knowledge corridor keeps tech and engineering jobs in play. The unemployment rate is a healthy 3.5%, and with only 18.1% of residents holding a bachelor’s degree or higher, there’s room for skilled workers to stand out. The top-paying jobs—marketing managers, pharmacists, software developers—reflect that mix of local industry needs and regional demand.

Here’s my honest take: wages aren’t keeping pace with the slow creep in costs, especially for housing. If you’re in a top-tier field, you’ll live very well. If you’re in the broader workforce, you’ll manage, but you won’t feel flush. It works best for young professionals, remote workers earning coastal salaries, or anyone in healthcare or tech.

The data below breaks down who earns what and how far your money goes—use it to see if Springfield fits your career and your budget.