Paralegal Salary in San Jose, CA
2024 BLS OEWS Data · Legal · COL Index: 195.8
$97,740
Median Salary
$101,760
Mean Salary
$49,918
COL-Adjusted
2,050
Employment
Salary Distribution
Percentile Breakdown
| Percentile | Salary | COL-Adjusted |
|---|---|---|
| 10th Percentile (Entry Level) | $58,900 | $30,082 |
| 25th Percentile | $74,390 | $37,993 |
| 50th Percentile (Median) | $97,740 | $49,918 |
| 75th Percentile | $119,530 | $61,047 |
| 90th Percentile (Top Earners) | $150,120 | $76,670 |
What Drives the Range
The $91,220 spread between the 10th and 90th percentiles for Paralegal positions in San Jose, 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.
San Jose, CA's cost-of-living index of 195.8 means that a $97,740 median salary here has the same purchasing power as $49,918 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.