Massachusetts’ Maura Healey Among the Highest-Paid Governors

Not everyone loves what elected officials do while in office. That's why there are elections. With more than a year until the next Massachusetts gubernatorial election, incumbent Democrat Governor Maura Healey already has four challengers, a sign that not everyone is a happy camper.

Three Republican candidates – Brian Shortsleeve, Mike Kennealy and Michael Minogue – are hoping to dislodge Healey, while the Democrat Andrea "AJ" James is looking to oust Healey in a 2026 primary election.

Each of the candidates challenging Healey has their view on the issues facing the Commonwealth. Some may seek power and perks. Still others might be attracted by the paycheck.

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After all, the Governor of Massachusetts, the 44th-largest state in the union, is paid pretty well.

Maura Healey's Salary History

In 2023, Healey's first year in office, Ballotpedia.org reported that Massachusetts had the fourth-highest-paid governor in America, with a base pay of $222,185. Only New York, Pennsylvania and California paid their governor more.

Holiday Pay Hike

But on December 31, 2024, New Year's Eve, Healey handed out base pay increases like holiday treats, providing an 11 percent raise for members of the Massachusetts Legislature.

MassLive.com reported that the raises increased stipends and other pay for committee chairs and leadership positions.

So festive was she that Healey gave herself and the other state-wide constitutional officer holders a 10 percent pay hike. Details were included in a letter issued to State Treasurer Deb Goldberg, who also received a 10 percent increase.

Maura Healey's Salary Today

With the boost in base pay, Healey now makes $243,493, pushing her total annual haul to more than $308,000 after housing and other compensation were added in.

As of 2023, the lowest-paid governor was Maine's Janet Mills, at $70,000.