Lawyer salaries vary widely depending on factors such as experience, location, industry, and specialization.
- In the United States, the median annual salary for lawyers was approximately $151,160 in May 2024
. In 2023, the median salary was reported as $145,760, with the top 25% earning around $217,360 and the bottom 25% around $98,030
- Salary ranges can be broad: the 10th percentile earns about $66,470, while the 90th percentile earns $239,200 or more
- Location significantly affects pay. For example, lawyers in California, New York, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, and Washington, DC earn the highest median salaries, ranging from about $152,000 to $178,000 annually
. Adjusted for cost of living, some metro areas like San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara in California have median salaries over $230,000
- Industry also plays a role. Lawyers in sectors like air transportation, computer manufacturing, and sports can earn mean salaries exceeding $250,000, while those in education or social services may earn below $100,000
- Entry-level salaries vary widely. Starting pay for new lawyers can range from $75,000 to over $200,000 depending on firm size and location
. Specialized roles like patent attorneys or intellectual property lawyers tend to have higher average salaries, often above $160,000, while family or criminal defense lawyers earn less, typically under $100,000
- Compared to related legal professions, lawyers generally earn more than judges, mediators, court reporters, and paralegals
In summary, a lawyer's salary in the U.S. typically ranges from about $66,000 at the low end to well over $200,000 at the high end, with a median around $145,000 to $151,000 annually, influenced strongly by geography, specialization, and experience
