Newton vs Springfield: Paralegal Salary (2026)
Compare paralegal salaries between Newton, MA and Springfield, MA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Newton, MA | Springfield, MA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $81,988▲ | $68,130 |
| Hourly Rate | $39.42▲ | $32.75 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $60,850▲ | $36,705 |
| 25th Percentile | $65,112▲ | $52,552 |
| 75th Percentile | $104,945▲ | $80,438 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $127,081▲ | $97,237 |
| Total Employed | 16 | 430▲ |
Verdict
Newton, MA offers better overall compensation for paralegals, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Springfield.
The salary gap between Newton and Springfield is $13,858 (20.34%). Newton's median is +25.95% compared to the US national median of $65,097.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Newton spans $66,231,Springfield spans $60,532. Newton 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, Newton ($75,565 effective) pays 6.54% more than Springfield ($70,924 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Newton if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($81,988/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($127,081)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $75,565)
- ✓You prefer the Massachusetts area and lifestyle
Choose Springfield if…
- ✓Larger job market (430 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Massachusetts area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, paralegal salaries in Newton grew 3.2% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 32.8% growth in Springfield over the same period.
Newton, MA
$76,717 (2024) → $79,208 (2025)
Springfield, MA
$49,560 (2019) → $65,820 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Newton, MA
Springfield, MA
Frequently Asked Questions
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Written by Jessica Tran, JD
Career Analyst
Jessica Tran has 10 years of experience in paralegal studies. She specializes in corporate law and works with a law firm. She trains new paralegals in legal research and documentation.
Methodology & Data Source
All salary figures are 2026 projections based on BLS OEWS May 2025 data. A 3.51% 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 Jessica Tran, JD, a licensed paralegal with 10+ years of clinical experience. · View source data at BLS.gov