Judge Salary (2025)
Judges preside over court proceedings and interpret laws.
The median Judge salary is $128,710 per year ($62/hour). Entry-level Judges earn around $85,000 while experienced Judges earn $220,000 or more annually.
Judge salaries vary based on experience, specialization, and location. Specializations such as federal judges or those in corporate law tend to offer higher salaries, often exceeding $200,000. Regional factors also play a significant role; judges in metropolitan areas or states with higher costs of living typically earn more, with median salaries reaching up to $150,000 in major cities.
AI-generated insight based on BLS data · For reference only
Salary Range
Median: $128,710 — positioned between entry and senior
Top Paying States for Judges
| State | Est. Annual Salary | vs. National |
|---|---|---|
| Hawaii | $183,000 | +42% |
| California | $178,000 | +38% |
| New York | $165,000 | +28% |
| Alaska | $161,000 | +25% |
| Massachusetts | $161,000 | +25% |
| New Jersey | $154,000 | +20% |
| Connecticut | $152,000 | +18% |
| Washington | $148,000 | +15% |
Estimates based on cost-of-living index adjustments. Actual salaries vary by employer and experience.
How to Become a Judge
Most Judge positions require: Juris Doctor (JD) + judicial appointment. Salaries typically increase significantly with experience and specialization.
Judge Salary by State
Related Careers in Legal
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average Judge salary?
The median Judge salary is $128,710 per year, which works out to approximately $62/hour based on a 40-hour work week.
How much does an entry-level Judge make?
Entry-level Judges typically earn around $85,000 per year. Salaries grow significantly with experience and specialization.
What is a senior Judge's salary?
Experienced Judges can earn up to $220,000 or more annually depending on location, employer, and specialization.
What education is required to become a Judge?
Most Judge positions require: Juris Doctor (JD) + judicial appointment.