Lawyer Salary in Los Angeles, CA
2024 BLS OEWS Data · Legal · COL Index: 166
$205,900
Median Salary
$270,610
Mean Salary
$124,036
COL-Adjusted
40,990
Employment
Salary Distribution
Percentile Breakdown
| Percentile | Salary | COL-Adjusted |
|---|---|---|
| 10th Percentile (Entry Level) | $102,370 | $61,669 |
| 25th Percentile | $130,420 | $78,566 |
| 50th Percentile (Median) | $205,900 | $124,036 |
| 75th Percentile | $335,320 | $202,000 |
| 90th Percentile (Top Earners) | $503,566 | $303,353 |
What Drives the Range
The $401,196 spread between the 10th and 90th percentiles for Lawyer positions in Los Angeles, CA reflects several factors. Entry-level professionals and those in smaller organizations typically fall in the lower quartiles, while senior specialists, those with in-demand certifications, and employees at large enterprises command salaries in the upper percentiles.
Los Angeles, CA's cost-of-living index of 166 means that a $205,900 median salary here has the same purchasing power as $124,036 in an average-cost U.S. city. Despite the higher cost of living, this metro area offers a deep talent pool and typically higher total compensation when including equity and bonuses.