verified BLS-Verified
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS)
May 2025 release
Paralegal Salary in California
Median Annual in California
$77,390/yr
Median Hourly Wage
$37.21/hr
▲ 23% above U.S. median
groups Employed in CA
47,130
public U.S. Median
$62,890
trending_up National Outlook
+4%
Paralegal pay in California, explained
Paralegals in California earn a median of $77,390 per year ($37.21 per hour), which is 23% above the national median of $62,890. Entry-level workers earn around $50,460, while the most experienced paralegals reach about $119,580. Pay varies by employer, setting, and metro area within California.
Paralegal in California: FAQ
How much do paralegals make in California?
Paralegals in California earn a median of $77,390 per year ($37.21 per hour), compared with $62,890 nationally.
Does California pay paralegals well?
At $77,390, California pays 23% above the national median for paralegals. An estimated 47,130 work in the state.