The average salary for a Entry-level lawyer in the US varies, but new attorneys can aim for a reasonable income. Factors like location and firm size influence these earnings.
As of December 2023, ZipRecruiter reports that the average annual salary for a first-year Lawyer in the United States is $100,644. Beyond the base salary, many entry-level lawyers also benefit from additional compensation through bonuses, commissions, and tips, estimated at approximately $9,128 per year.
Which industries offer the highest mid career salaries for lawyers?
An attorney’s income is influenced by their legal specialization and work sector. The type of law practiced and the choice between private and public sectors, such as government or private law firms, play pivotal roles in determining earnings. For instance, lawyers in the Federal Executive Branch have an average annual salary of $152,700, while those in state governments earn around $103,390, as per the BLS.
Lawyers can find lucrative opportunities in various industries, with top-paying sectors including:
- 1. Nonscheduled Air Transportation: $310,2502.
- 2. Computer and Peripheral Equipment Manufacturing: $276,1603.
- 3. Office Administrative Services: $261,7404.
- 4. Spectator Sports: $251,2605.
- 5. Sound Recording Industries: $249,320
Which industries have the lowest salaries for lawyers?
Lawyers in state government, excluding education and hospitals, earn an average salary of $97,640, while those in federal government positions have an average income of $158,370. In areas emphasizing public service, public defenders earn around $75,337 annually, and immigration attorneys average $74,378 per year.
