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Judge/Magistrate Salary in the United States

How much does a Judge/Magistrate make in the United States?

As of September 01, 2026, the average salary for a Judge/Magistrate in the United States is $190,140 per year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $91.

However, a Judge/Magistrate's salary can vary significantly. Here’s a look at the typical salary range:

  • Top Earners (90th percentile): $233,406
  • Majority Range (25th-75th percentile): $186,507 to $212,787
  • Entry-Level (10th percentile): $183,200
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Key Factors That Influence Judge/Magistrate Salaries

A Judge/Magistrate's salary isn't a fixed number. It's shaped by several important factors. Below, we'll explore how geographic location and company size can directly affect your earning potential.

How Do Judge/Magistrate Salaries Vary from State to State?

Your salary can change significantly depending on where you work. States with a higher cost of living and strong industrial sectors often pay more to attract Judge/Magistrates. For example, consider the average annual salaries in these key locations:
  • District of Columbia: $210,523.
  • California: $209,725.
  • Massachusetts: $206,930.

Top Paying Cities for Judge/Magistrates

Salaries can also vary between different cities. Major metropolitan areas or cities with a high demand for technicians often offer more competitive pay. Here are a few examples of average annual salaries in different U.S. cities:

  • San Jose: $239,824
  • San Francisco: $237,198
  • Oakland: $232,199

Judge/Magistrate Salary by Company Size: Startups vs. Enterprise

Judge/Magistrate salary potential scales significantly with company size. Data shows that Enterprise companies (5,000+ employees) pay the highest average salary at around $190,140. While startup companies pay approximate $190,140.

Judge/Magistrate Salary by Company Size

Company Size Employees Average Salary
Startup 1~50 $190,140
Growth Stage 51~500 $190,140
Established 501~5000 $190,140
Enterprise 5000+ $190,140

Judge/Magistrate Salary: Hourly Rate, Weekly Pay, and Monthly Pay

Understanding how a Judge/Magistrate's annual salary breaks down can help with budgeting. Below, you can see the average hourly rate, weekly pay, and monthly pay for this role. Use the buttons to switch between different pay periods.

Last Updated on September 01, 2026
$186,507
Average $190,140/year
$212,787
$15,542
Average $15,845/month
$17,732
$3,587
Average $3,657/week
$4,092
$90
Average $91/hour
$102
Annual Salary Monthly Pay Weekly Pay Hourly Wage
75th Percentile $212,787 $17,732 $4,092 $102
Average $190,140 $15,845 $3,657 $91
25th Percentile $186,507 $15,542 $3,587 $90

Most common benefits for Judge/Magistrate

  • Social Security
  • 401 (k)
  • Disability
  • Healthcare
  • Pension
  • Time Off (days)

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FAQ about Judge/Magistrate

1. Where can a Judge/Magistrate earn the most?

A Judge/Magistrate's earning potential can vary widely depending on several factors, including location, industry, experience, education, and the specific employer. According to the latest salary data by Salary.com, a Judge/Magistrate earns the most in San Jose, CA, where the annual salary of a Judge/Magistrate is $239,824.

2. What is the highest pay for Judge/Magistrate?

The highest pay for Judge/Magistrate is $233,406.

3. What is the lowest pay for Judge/Magistrate?

The lowest pay for Judge/Magistrate is $183,200.

4. What are the responsibilities of Judge/Magistrate?

Oversees legal process and ensures that court rules and proceedings are adhered to. Upholds laws. Must be a graduate of an accredited law school. Most states require prior experience as a lawyer.

Where Does Our Salary Data Come From?

Salary.com provides salary estimates, histograms, trends, and comparisons using data from employer job postings and third-party sources.

We offer detailed salary information across multiple percentiles for your reference. (Click here to learn Why the Salary Midpoint Formula Is Crucial for Achieving Pay Equity.)

With the most extensive online, real-time compensation data available, Salary.com helps you pinpoint your exact pay target.

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