The Average Salary of a Lawyer: How Much Do They Really Earn?

To someone who isn’t already in the legal profession, the idea of earning an average salary as a lawyer might seem unfathomable. But what does the average lawyer salary look like? How much do lawyers really earn? Let’s take a closer look at the earnings potential for attorneys and what factors affect their pay.

Introduction

For many, the idea of being a lawyer conjures up images of fame, fortune and power. However, it is important to remember that every profession has its pros and cons. The average salary for lawyers is $143,000 per year with the top earners making well over six figures. There are so many factors that can affect your salary including location, company size and even choice of practice area. Read on to find out more about the average lawyer salary.

What is the average salary of a lawyer in the United States?

In the United States, the average salary for lawyers ranges anywhere from $50,000 to $200,000. This number varies based on where you live, what type of law you practice, and your level of experience. 

Lawyers in rural areas typically have lower salaries than those in metropolitan areas. For example, lawyers in small towns can earn as little as $50,000 while those in big cities can earn upwards of $200,000 per year. 

It is important to note that these numbers are just averages and many factors will go into determining how much you'll make as a lawyer including your education level and career path. Lawyers who focus on criminal law may also make more than other types due to higher payouts for court cases.

What are some factors that affect a lawyer's salary?

One big factor that affects lawyer salaries is location. The cost of living varies from place to place, so the salary for lawyers in those places can vary greatly. Salaries also depend on the type of law being practiced and the employer, among other factors. For example, lawyers who work at firms will have higher salaries than those who work as solo practitioners or in government jobs. 

Maintaining good health is another important factor that affects lawyer salaries; lawyers with chronic illnesses may not be able to maintain the same level of productivity, which could lead to lower paychecks.

How does the average salary of a lawyer compare to other professions?

Many lawyers take issue with the old adage that lawyers are never satisfied--a nod to how difficult it is for them to find work where they feel fulfilled. It's also an acknowledgment that money isn't everything. Still, if you're considering law school, or if you're already in law school and wondering what kind of salary awaits you at graduation, it's worth knowing the lawyer average salary.

Conclusion

For starters, the average salary for lawyers is about $100,000. That's not too shabby! Still, it's important to note that there are a lot of factors that go into determining your potential salary - and many have nothing to do with the hours you work or your experience level. This includes things like the location of your law firm (urban or rural), your area of expertise, and even the city in which you live.