Ethereum Validators Can Earn Up to 30% More with MEV-Boost

MEV-Boost is an open-source middleware that helps Ethereum validators maximize their earnings by participating in competitive builder auctions. By using MEV-Boost, a validator can earn up to 30% more than what they would with local building alone.

The software works by sitting between the consensus client and a network of block builders, allowing validators to propose blocks without directly assembling them from the mempool. This separation prevents front-running by the proposer itself, making it a safer option for validators.

According to staking analytics from 2026, MEV-Boost has added an additional 0.4 to 1.0 percentage points of annualized yield for validators who use it. To set up MEV-Boost, validators need to install the software and choose relays that balance yield against censorship exposure.

MEV-Boost is a crucial tool for solo stakers, as it allows them to participate in competitive builder auctions and increase their earnings without having to trust third-party custody or move their 32 ETH deposit. With MEV-Boost, validators can monitor bids and rewards over time, configure fallbacks, and even test their setup on a testnet before going live.