Lowell vs Salem: Actuary Salary (2026)
Compare actuary salaries between Lowell, MA and Salem, MA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Lowell, MA | Salem, MA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $145,966▲ | $140,254 |
| Hourly Rate | $70.18▲ | $67.43 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $91,097 | $92,007▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $111,003▲ | $109,483 |
| 75th Percentile | $186,836▲ | $177,887 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $226,247▲ | $217,394 |
| Total Employed | 29▲ | 8 |
Verdict
Lowell, MA offers better overall compensation for actuaries, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Salem.
The salary gap between Lowell and Salem is $5,712 (4.07%). 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 Lowell spans $135,150,Salem spans $125,387. Lowell 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 4.07% more than Salem ($129,266 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
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
Choose Salem if…
- ✓You prefer the Massachusetts area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, actuary salaries in Lowell grew -8.5% from 2024 to 2025, compared to -8.5% growth in Salem over the same period.
Lowell, MA
$154,497 (2024) → $141,440 (2025)
Salem, MA
$148,450 (2024) → $135,905 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Lowell, MA
Frequently Asked Questions
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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