Lowell vs Worcester: Nurse Practitioner Salary (2026)
Compare nurse practitioner salaries between Lowell, MA and Worcester, MA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Lowell, MA | Worcester, MA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $142,736▲ | $139,782 |
| Hourly Rate | $68.62▲ | $67.20 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $111,695▲ | $108,974 |
| 25th Percentile | $128,397 | $129,364▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $172,674▲ | $168,251 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $193,375 | $211,069▲ |
| Total Employed | 29 | 840▲ |
Verdict
Lowell and Worcester are closely matched on overall nurse practitioner compensation, each winning on different metrics.
The salary gap between Lowell and Worcester is $2,954 (2.11%). Lowell's median is +4.29% compared to the US national median of $136,864.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Lowell spans $81,680,Worcester spans $102,095. Worcester has a wider pay range, suggesting more variation in pay between entry-level and experienced nurse practitioners.
Cost-of-Living Adjusted Comparison
After cost-of-living adjustment, Worcester ($136,342 effective) pays 3.64% more than Lowell ($131,554 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 ($142,736/year)
- ✓You prefer the Massachusetts area and lifestyle
Choose Worcester if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($211,069)
- ✓Larger job market (840 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $136,342)
- ✓You prefer the Massachusetts area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, nurse practitioner salaries in Lowell grew -13.7% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 13.6% growth in Worcester over the same period.
Lowell, MA
$159,937 (2024) → $137,976 (2025)
Worcester, MA
$118,950 (2019) → $135,120 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Lowell, MA
Worcester, MA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays nurse practitioners more: Lowell or Worcester?
What is the hourly rate difference between Lowell and Worcester?
Should I relocate from Lowell to Worcester as a nurse practitioner?
What do entry-level nurse practitioners earn in Lowell vs Worcester?
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Written by Maria Gonzalez, MSN, NP-C
Career Analyst
Maria has 10 years of experience in adult healthcare. She works in a community health clinic. Her specialty is chronic disease management.
Methodology & Data Source
All salary figures are 2026 projections based on BLS OEWS May 2025 data. A 3.45% 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 Gonzalez, MSN, NP-C, a licensed nurse practitioner with 10+ years of clinical experience. · View source data at BLS.gov