science Illustrative sample
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS)
May 2024 release
Lawyer Salary in California
Median Annual in California
$175,863/yr
Median Hourly Wage
$84.55/hr
▲ 19% above U.S. median
groups Employed in CA
92,696
public U.S. Median
$148,030
trending_up National Outlook
+8%
Lawyer pay in California, explained
Lawyers in California earn a median of $175,863 per year ($84.55 per hour), which is 19% above the national median of $148,030. Entry-level workers earn around $116,070, while the most experienced lawyers reach about $256,760. Pay varies by employer, setting, and metro area within California.
Lawyer in California: FAQ
How much do lawyers make in California?
Lawyers in California earn a median of $175,863 per year ($84.55 per hour), compared with $148,030 nationally.
Does California pay lawyers well?
At $175,863, California pays 19% above the national median for lawyers. An estimated 92,696 work in the state.