The average paralegal salary in the United States is $59,200 per year. Salaries range from $39,000 to over $90,000 depending on experience, location, and specialization. Paralegals in metropolitan areas or corporate legal departments typically earn more than those in smaller firms or rural regions.
Understanding the Paralegal Profession and Salary Basics
Paralegals earn an average annual salary of $59,200 in the U.S., performing legal support work such as conducting legal research, drafting legal documents, and assisting attorneys.
Paralegals, also known as legal assistants, play a key role in law offices by supporting attorneys with substantive legal work. They don’t practice law or represent clients but are responsible for preparing legal documents, organizing case files, and performing legal research.
Key Facts:
- Occupational employment: Over 370,000 paralegals work in the U.S.
- Job outlook: 4% growth rate projected through 2033 (Projections Central).
- Education required: Most paralegals have an associate’s degree or bachelor’s degree in paralegal studies or legal studies.
- Certifications: The National Association of Legal Assistants (NALA) and National Federation of Paralegal Associations (NFPA) offer certifications that can increase earnings.
What Is the Average Paralegal Salary in the U.S.?
The national median annual salary for paralegals is $61,010 as of 2025, according to U.S. labor statistics.
Salary Range:
- Low end (entry-level): $39,000
- High end (senior/urban roles): $90,000+
Many paralegals working in large law firms or corporate legal departments earn salaries on the higher end, especially those with certification, legal experience, or specialization in litigation, intellectual property, or corporate law.
Entry-Level vs. Experienced Paralegal Salaries
Entry-level paralegals earn around $39,000, while senior paralegals earn up to or over $90,000. Salary increases with years of experience, certifications, and advanced training.
| Experience Level | Estimated Salary Range |
|---|---|
| 0–2 years | $39,000 – $50,000 |
| 3–5 years | $50,000 – $65,000 |
| 6–10 years | $65,000 – $80,000 |
| 10+ years | $80,000 – $95,000+ |
Paralegals with certification from NALA or NFPA or who have specialized legal education tend to earn more. Many paralegals working in large law offices or federal government agencies also receive health insurance, pension plans, and other benefits.
Salary by State and Region
Paralegal salaries vary depending on state and local demand, cost of living, and firm size.
Paralegal Salary Table by State (2025)
| State | Median Salary | Bottom 10% | Top 10% |
|---|---|---|---|
| District of Columbia | $99,300 | $59,930 | $128,100 |
| California | $72,960 | $48,000 | $105,350 |
| Mississippi | $39,120 | $34,320 | $67,620 |
| Texas | $59,700 | $37,850 | $96,530 |
| Florida | $60,280 | $37,440 | $82,450 |
| New York | $66,390 | $47,880 | $105,910 |
Top-paying states:
- District of Columbia
- Massachusetts
- Washington
- California
- New York
Lowest median salary:
Note: Rural areas tend to pay less, but the cost of living is also lower. Large metro areas employ paralegals in higher-paying roles in corporate law, government agencies, and major industries.
Industry and Employer Differences in Paralegal Salaries
Paralegals working in corporate law or federal government earn more than those in local firms or nonprofits.
High-paying sectors:
- Corporate legal departments
- Federal government agencies
- Healthcare companies
- Financial institutions
- Intellectual property law firms
Lower-paying sectors:
- Nonprofits
- Small local law offices
- Rural general practice firms
Government agencies may offer lower base pay but often provide better benefits, work-life balance, and retirement plans.
Impact of Education and Certification on Paralegal Salaries
Certified paralegals earn more than non-certified peers and have better chances for advancement.
Educational Paths:
- High school diploma + on-the-job training (lowest pay)
- Associate’s degree in paralegal studies (entry-level roles)
- Bachelor’s degree in legal studies or related fields (higher pay)
Certifications:
- NALA’s Certified Paralegal (CP)
- NFPA’s PACE Registered Paralegal
- American Bar Association-approved programs
Certified professionals often work in high-responsibility roles and command higher salaries.
Future Outlook for Paralegal Salaries
The paralegal profession continues to grow steadily, driven by demand for cost-effective legal services.
Key Trends:
- 4% growth rate through 2033 (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics)
- Remote work opportunities expanding
- More law firms using legal tech to streamline operations
- Litigation and compliance roles in demand
- Paralegals are taking on more substantive legal work
Job security and long-term career opportunities are stable for trained legal professionals, especially in large firms, healthcare, or finance.
Typical Paralegal Salary FAQs (and Answers)
Below are common paralegal salary questions.
Do paralegals earn overtime pay, or are they typically salaried?
Most paralegals are non-exempt employees, meaning they qualify for overtime pay under the FLSA. Some law firms offer salaried positions with fixed compensation, but eligibility depends on employer classification and state law.
How does working in a specialized legal field affect a paralegal’s salary?
Paralegals in specialized areas like intellectual property, litigation, and corporate law earn higher salaries due to advanced skills and demand. These roles often include performance bonuses.
Can rural paralegals work remotely to access higher salaries?
Some firms offer remote roles with urban-level pay, especially for skilled or certified paralegals. However, most employers still base pay on local rates.
Are there salary differences between government and private sector paralegals?
Yes. Government roles usually pay less but include strong benefits, stability, and set work hours. Private sector roles offer higher pay but more pressure and overtime.
How do bonuses and profit-sharing affect total pay?
Large firms often include bonuses and profit-sharing, increasing total compensation significantly. Smaller firms may offer less cash bonus but more flexibility.
What’s the salary impact of earning paralegal certification?
Certified paralegals earn more and get better job offers. Employers value CP or RP credentials and often provide salary increases upon certification.
Final Ideas
Paralegals earn a median salary of $61,010, with strong opportunities for growth based on location, education, and experience. Certified, specialized professionals working in metro areas or corporate law consistently earn the most.
Whether you’re just starting in paralegal education or have years of legal experience, the paralegal profession offers a stable career with clear pathways to higher pay.
