Lawyer Salary in New York, NY
2024 BLS OEWS Data · Legal · COL Index: 187.2
$203,450
Median Salary
$216,120
Mean Salary
$108,681
COL-Adjusted
93,730
Employment
Salary Distribution
Percentile Breakdown
| Percentile | Salary | COL-Adjusted |
|---|---|---|
| 10th Percentile (Entry Level) | $83,650 | $44,685 |
| 25th Percentile | $125,350 | $66,960 |
| 50th Percentile (Median) | $203,450 | $108,681 |
| 75th Percentile | $228,790 | $122,217 |
| 90th Percentile (Top Earners) | $261,732 | $139,814 |
What Drives the Range
The $178,082 spread between the 10th and 90th percentiles for Lawyer positions in New York, NY 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.
New York, NY's cost-of-living index of 187.2 means that a $203,450 median salary here has the same purchasing power as $108,681 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.