Lawyer Salary in the United States
Based on 755K+ data points from BLS and H-1B filings
Median Annual Salary
$134,712
$64.765/hr
▲ 4.9% vs 2024Salary Range
$85K – $391K
10th – 90th percentile
Total Employed
755K
workers nationwide
Lawyer salary in the United States reflects strong earning potential within the legal profession. The median annual salary for lawyers stands at $128,445, with approximately 740,060 lawyers currently employed across the country. This figure represents steady compensation for legal professionals, though individual earnings vary significantly based on various professional factors.
Several elements influence lawyer salary in the United States, including years of experience, geographic location, and practice specialization. Attorneys working in major metropolitan areas or specialized fields such as corporate law or intellectual property typically earn higher wages, with salaries ranging from $101,070 to $195,830 annually. Firm size, client base, and educational credentials also play important roles in determining individual compensation levels.
Salary Distribution — Lawyer
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th percentile | $85,200 |
| 25th percentile | $127,580 |
| Median (50th percentile) | $134,712 |
| 75th percentile | $322,120 |
| 90th percentile | $391,420 |
Lawyer Salary by State
Top 10 Highest-Paying States for Lawyer
| # | State | Median Salary | vs National | Employed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | New York | $207,860 | +54.3% | 92K |
| 2 | District of Columbia | $195,190 | +44.9% | 33K |
| 3 | California | $195,080 | +44.8% | 96K |
| 4 | Massachusetts | $176,680 | +31.2% | 24K |
| 5 | Delaware | $173,510 | +28.8% | 3K |
| 6 | Colorado | $168,520 | +25.1% | 17K |
| 7 | Virginia | $167,210 | +24.1% | 19K |
| 8 | Connecticut | $163,600 | +21.4% | 8K |
| 9 | New Jersey | $161,430 | +19.8% | 23K |
| 10 | Illinois | $160,800 | +19.4% | 34K |
Historical Salary Trend — Lawyer
| Year | Median Salary (United States) |
|---|---|
| 2022 | $116,457 |
| 2023 | $126,734 |
| 2024 | $128,445 |
| 2025 | $134,712 |
Lawyer Salary by Experience Level
Frequently Asked Questions
How much do lawyers make per hour in the United States?
- The median hourly rate for lawyers in the United States is $62/hour. This translates to an annual median salary of $128,445, though actual hourly rates can vary based on experience, location, and practice area.
What is the salary range for lawyers in the US?
- Lawyer salaries in the United States range from $101,070 at the lower end to $195,830 at the higher end. This wide range reflects differences in experience level, specialization, and geographic location.
Which city pays lawyers the most in America?
- California is the top paying location for lawyers in the United States, offering an average salary of $197,790. This exceeds the national median by approximately $69,000 annually.
How many lawyers are currently employed in the US?
- There are approximately 740,060 lawyers currently employed in the United States. This represents the total number of practicing lawyers across all states and practice areas.