How to Become a Judges, Magistrate Judges, and Magistrate in 2026
Median salary: $156,210 · +2.5% projected growth (2024–2034)
What does a Judges, Magistrate Judges, and Magistrate do?
Arbitrate, advise, adjudicate, or administer justice in a court of law. May sentence defendant in criminal cases according to government statutes or sentencing guidelines. May determine liability of defendant in civil cases. May perform wedding ceremonies.
Judges, Magistrate Judges, and Magistrate Salary in 2026
The median annual salary for Judges, Magistrate Judges, and Magistrates is $156,210. The bottom 10% earn around $46,520 while the top 10% earn over $216,540.
| Experience level | Annual salary |
|---|---|
| Entry-level (P10) | $46,520 |
| Early career (P25) | $86,060 |
| Median | $156,210 |
| Experienced (P75) | $189,890 |
| Top earners (P90) | $216,540 |
Highest-paying metros
Judges, Magistrate Judges, and Magistrate salary by state
| State | Median salary |
|---|---|
| Massachusettstop | $221,710 |
| Connecticut | $211,420 |
| Hawaii | $203,290 |
| New Jersey | $200,150 |
| Nebraska | $196,390 |
| Arkansas | $192,910 |
| Colorado | $191,640 |
| New York | $189,890 |
| Minnesota | $182,790 |
| Maryland | $181,320 |
| Tennessee | $178,730 |
| Indiana | $177,180 |
| Oregon | $174,100 |
| Alaska | $168,880 |
| New Mexico | $164,340 |
| Maine | $156,770 |
| Missouri | $156,210 |
| Kansas | $148,910 |
| Vermont | $141,080 |
| Texas | $139,990 |
| Kentucky | $138,620 |
| Washington | $131,740 |
| Georgia | $131,670 |
| Delaware | $126,700 |
| Utah | $123,640 |
| Nevada | $118,690 |
| Virginia | $104,000 |
| Ohio | $97,260 |
| South Carolina | $84,270 |
| Wisconsin | $83,620 |
| Louisiana | $70,610 |
| Montana | $63,260 |
| West Virginia | $63,240 |
| Michigan | $51,250 |
| Alabama | $50,950 |
| Mississippi | $49,900 |
How to earn more as a Judges, Magistrate Judges, and Magistrate
The salary range for Judges, Magistrate Judges, and Magistrates spans $170,020 — from $46,520 at entry level to $216,540 for top earners. The highest-paying metro area is Boston-Cambridge-Newton, MA-NH at $221,710 — $65,500 above the national median. An advanced credential — such as a graduate degree or specialized certification — is consistently associated with higher earnings in this field.
How to get there
Typical education: Doctoral or professional degree
Work experience: 5 years or more
On-the-job training: Short-term on-the-job training
Starting from high school
- Complete a doctoral or professional degree program (4–6 years undergrad + 2–4 years graduate)
- Pursue internships and co-op experiences during your studies
- 5 years or more
- Short-term on-the-job training
- Advance into full professional role after meeting experience requirements
Choose an accredited program with strong industry connections and internship placement rates. Look for schools that offer co-op programs where you alternate between study and paid work. Many employers recruit directly from university programs, so networking and career fairs are valuable. Consider the total return on investment — schools with lower tuition but strong placement rates often outperform expensive programs.
Graduate assistantships, fellowships, and employer sponsorship can significantly reduce costs. Research public university options.
With a related degree
- Complete additional coursework or a certificate program in the specialization
- Earn professional certifications (industry-recognized certifications)
- 5 years or more
- Position yourself for the role using your combined education and experience
Your existing degree covers many foundational requirements. Focus on the gap — often 3–6 specialized courses plus a certification or two. Many universities offer post-baccalaureate certificates that take 1–2 semesters. Online programs from accredited universities provide flexibility for working professionals.
Certificate programs and individual courses are much cheaper than a second degree. Many employers offer tuition reimbursement for career-relevant education.
Career change from another field
- Enroll in a graduate program in the field
- Earn required professional certifications
- Short-term on-the-job training
- Leverage your previous career skills for a differentiated profile
Career changers bring valuable perspective — employers increasingly value diverse backgrounds. Look for accelerated programs designed for career changers (many fields now offer 12–18 month intensive programs). Your prior professional experience in areas like project management, communication, and leadership transfer directly and can accelerate your advancement once you enter the field.
Career change scholarship programs exist in many fields. Some employers offer sign-on bonuses or student loan repayment assistance for in-demand specializations.
Already working in another career?
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SOC: 23-1023.00 · Data: O*NET 29.1, BLS OEWS 2024, BLS Employment Projections 2024–2034