Barnstable vs Lowell: Actuary Salary (2026)
Compare actuary salaries between Barnstable, MA and Lowell, MA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Barnstable, MA | Lowell, MA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $141,496 | $145,966▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $68.03 | $70.18▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $83,356 | $91,097▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $111,943▲ | $111,003 |
| 75th Percentile | $180,827 | $186,836▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $219,320 | $226,247▲ |
| Total Employed | 8 | 29▲ |
Verdict
Lowell, MA offers better overall compensation for actuaries, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Barnstable.
The salary gap between Barnstable and Lowell is $4,470 (3.16%). Lowell's median is +8.80% compared to the US national median of $134,160.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Barnstable spans $135,964,Lowell spans $135,150. Barnstable 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, Lowell ($134,531 effective) pays 3.16% more than Barnstable ($130,411 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Barnstable if…
- ✓You prefer the Massachusetts area and lifestyle
Choose Lowell if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($145,966/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($226,247)
- ✓Larger job market (29 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $134,531)
- ✓You prefer the Massachusetts area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, actuary salaries in Barnstable grew -8.5% from 2024 to 2025, compared to -8.5% growth in Lowell over the same period.
Barnstable, MA
$149,765 (2024) → $137,109 (2025)
Lowell, MA
$154,497 (2024) → $141,440 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Barnstable, MA
Lowell, MA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays actuarys more: Barnstable or Lowell?
What is the hourly rate difference between Barnstable and Lowell?
Should I relocate from Barnstable to Lowell as a actuary?
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Written by Maria Chen, FSA, MAAA
Career Analyst
Maria has 10 years of experience in life insurance. She specializes in risk assessment and pricing strategies.
Methodology & Data Source
All salary figures are 2026 projections based on BLS OEWS May 2025 data. A 3.20% 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 Maria Chen, FSA, MAAA, a licensed actuary with 10+ years of clinical experience. · View source data at BLS.gov