Controller Jobs in Cambridge, MA

Cambridge, Massachusetts$226,800 USD/yearFull-timeTech Hub
Updated: March 2026Expert reviewed|Data sourced from BLS, Glassdoor, and industry reports

Controller Salary in Cambridge

Entry Level
$142,800
Median
$226,800
Senior Level
$328,440

Controller salaries in Cambridge are 68% above the national average, reflecting the high cost of living.

Purchasing power in Cambridge is comparable to the national average, with salaries appropriately scaled to local costs.

Required Skills

Financial ReportingGAAPTeam ManagementInternal ControlsERP Systems

Controller Job Market in Cambridge

Cambridge, MA is a growing job market with increasing opportunities for Controller professionals. Though smaller than coastal metros, Cambridge offers focused opportunities and often better work-life balance. While Technology leads the local economy, there's growing demand for Controller roles across various sectors. The market for Controller positions remains stable, with opportunities in both established companies and growing organizations.

Top Companies Hiring Controllers in Cambridge

City of CambridgeMBTAMIT

Major employers hiring Controllers in Cambridge include City of Cambridge, MBTA, MIT. Many companies offer competitive benefits including comprehensive healthcare, and professional development opportunities.

Cost of Living for Controllers in Cambridge

Living in Cambridge as a Controller means navigating a cost of living that's significantly above the national average (168% of baseline). Average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment is approximately $2,900/month (61% above the national average of $1,800). At median Controller salary, housing is quite affordable at 15% of gross income, leaving room for savings and lifestyle spending. Suburban apartments average $2,200/month, offering significant savings with slightly longer commutes.

168
Cost Index (100=avg)
$2.9K
Avg Rent/Month
Yes
Tech Hub
Tier 3
Market Size

Commuting as a Controller in Cambridge

Cambridge Limited public transit options; car recommended for most commutes. The average commute time is 25 minutes. Research employer-specific shuttle services. Consider living close to your workplace. Since transit options are limited, consider living close to your workplace or negotiating flexible hours to avoid peak traffic.

Best neighborhoods for Controllers in Cambridge: Downtown (Central business district with tech companies); Tech Park/Campus (Suburban office park developments). Downtown is particularly popular among Controller professionals due to proximity to major employers and urban amenities.

Tax Considerations in Massachusetts

Massachusetts has moderate state income taxes. When evaluating offers, consider total compensation including benefits, not just base salary. Local cost of living typically has more impact on your finances than state tax differences.

Career Outlook for Controllers

The job outlook for Controllers in Cambridge is stable. While not experiencing rapid growth, the field maintains steady demand with consistent opportunities for qualified professionals. While the market is smaller, Cambridge offers opportunities for those seeking specialized roles or better work-life balance. In-demand skills include Financial Reporting, GAAP, Team Management, Internal Controls.

Relocating to Cambridge

Cambridge has a very high cost of living. Many Controllers negotiate relocation packages or sign-on bonuses to offset moving costs.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the average Controller salary in Cambridge, MA?

The average Controller salary in Cambridge, MA is $226,800 per year. Entry-level Controllers typically start around $142,800, while experienced professionals can earn $328,440 or more. The national average for Controller roles is $135,000.

How many Controller jobs are available in Cambridge?

Cambridge has a growing job market with steady opportunities for Controller professionals. Major employers hiring Controllers include City of Cambridge, MBTA, MIT. The Technology and Biotechnology sectors drive much of the demand in this market.

Is Cambridge a good city for Controllers?

Cambridge is an excellent choice for Controllers. While not as large as coastal metros, it offers solid opportunities and often better work-life balance. However, be aware of the higher cost of living when evaluating offers. The city's technology industry creates strong demand for finance & accounting professionals.

What skills are most in-demand for Controllers in Cambridge?

Top skills for Controllers in Cambridge include Financial Reporting, GAAP, Team Management, Internal Controls, ERP Systems. Employers value both technical expertise and soft skills like communication and teamwork.

What is the cost of living for Controllers in Cambridge?

Cambridge's cost of living is significantly above the national average (168% of baseline). Average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment is approximately $2,900/month. Purchasing power in Cambridge is comparable to the national average, with salaries appropriately scaled to local costs.

How is the commute for Controllers in Cambridge?

Cambridge Limited public transit options; car recommended for most commutes. The average commute is 25 minutes. Research employer-specific shuttle services.

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