Paralegal Salary in Los Angeles, CA
2024 BLS OEWS Data · Legal · COL Index: 166
$63,110
Median Salary
$73,160
Mean Salary
$38,018
COL-Adjusted
21,290
Employment
Salary Distribution
Percentile Breakdown
| Percentile | Salary | COL-Adjusted |
|---|---|---|
| 10th Percentile (Entry Level) | $44,360 | $26,723 |
| 25th Percentile | $51,110 | $30,789 |
| 50th Percentile (Median) | $63,110 | $38,018 |
| 75th Percentile | $96,200 | $57,952 |
| 90th Percentile (Top Earners) | $100,250 | $60,392 |
What Drives the Range
The $55,890 spread between the 10th and 90th percentiles for Paralegal 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 $63,110 median salary here has the same purchasing power as $38,018 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.