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Job outlook for attorneys in the United States
Attorney job growth summary. After extensive research, interviews, and analysis, Zippia's data science team found that:
The projected attorney job growth rate is 10% from 2018-2028.
About 80,200 new jobs for attorneys are projected over the next decade.
Attorney salaries have increased 7% for attorneys in the last 5 years.
There are over 348,457 attorneys currently employed in the United States.
There are 10,991 active attorney job openings in the US.
The average attorney salary is $109,476.
Are attorney jobs in demand?
Attorney job and salary trends over time
Attorney jobs over time
Attorney job growth rate over time
Year  | # Of Jobs | % Of Population |
|---|---|---|
| 2021 | 348,457 | 0.10% |
| 2020 | 336,301 | 0.10% |
| 2019 | 335,552 | 0.10% |
| 2018 | 327,710 | 0.10% |
| 2017 | 320,092 | 0.10% |
Average attorney salary over time
Attorney salary by year
| Year | Avg. Salary | Hourly Rate | % Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 | $109,476 | $52.63 | +3.2% |
| 2024 | $106,052 | $50.99 | +1.7% |
| 2023 | $104,284 | $50.14 | +1.4% |
| 2022 | $102,852 | $49.45 | +0.9% |
| 2021 | $101,912 | $49.00 | +2.0% |
Attorney jobs by state
Most common states for attorneys
| Rank | State | Population | # of Jobs | Employment/ 1000ppl |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | District of Columbia | 693,972 | 229 | 33% |
| 2 | Wyoming | 579,315 | 25 | 4% |
| 3 | Massachusetts | 6,859,819 | 189 | 3% |
| 4 | Montana | 1,050,493 | 28 | 3% |
| 5 | California | 39,536,653 | 694 | 2% |
| 6 | New York | 19,849,399 | 447 | 2% |
| 7 | Florida | 20,984,400 | 360 | 2% |
| 8 | Virginia | 8,470,020 | 138 | 2% |
| 9 | Minnesota | 5,576,606 | 118 | 2% |
| 10 | Colorado | 5,607,154 | 94 | 2% |
| 11 | Nebraska | 1,920,076 | 33 | 2% |
| 12 | Delaware | 961,939 | 19 | 2% |
| 13 | Texas | 28,304,596 | 419 | 1% |
| 14 | Illinois | 12,802,023 | 176 | 1% |
| 15 | New Jersey | 9,005,644 | 123 | 1% |
| 16 | Arizona | 7,016,270 | 101 | 1% |
| 17 | Connecticut | 3,588,184 | 33 | 1% |
| 18 | New Hampshire | 1,342,795 | 20 | 1% |
| 19 | New Mexico | 2,088,070 | 18 | 1% |
| 20 | North Dakota | 755,393 | 9 | 1% |
Most common cities for attorneys
| Rank | City | # of Jobs | Employment/ 1000ppl | Avg. Salary |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Washington | 63 | 9% | $127,954 |
| 2 | Tallahassee | 11 | 6% | $78,336 |
| 3 | Atlanta | 13 | 3% | $83,375 |
| 4 | Little Rock | 5 | 3% | $59,606 |
| 5 | Boston | 14 | 2% | $116,134 |
| 6 | Des Moines | 5 | 2% | $70,517 |
| 7 | Chicago | 14 | 1% | $91,916 |
| 8 | Indianapolis | 7 | 1% | $64,125 |
| 9 | San Francisco | 7 | 1% | $130,913 |
| 10 | Baltimore | 5 | 1% | $91,715 |
| 11 | Charlotte | 5 | 1% | $76,418 |
| 12 | Denver | 5 | 1% | $92,617 |
| 13 | Miami | 5 | 1% | $79,614 |
| 14 | Seattle | 4 | 1% | $90,824 |
| 15 | Tampa | 4 | 1% | $79,782 |
| 16 | Los Angeles | 14 | 0% | $125,724 |
| 17 | New York | 12 | 0% | $131,684 |
| 18 | San Diego | 6 | 0% | $122,371 |
| 19 | Phoenix | 5 | 0% | $93,309 |
Attorney job outlook: Expert opinions
Our panel of attorney experts
Suffolk University
University of North Dakota
Oakland University
Rollins College
University of Cincinnati
Georgia State University
Lewis and Clark School of Law
Texas Tech University
University of New Hampshire Franklin Pierce School of Law
Michael Bolden Former First Justice/Boston Municipal Court/Retired
Suffolk University
Law
What general advice would you give to an Attorney?
Michael Bolden Former First Justice/Boston Municipal Court/Retired: While maximizing a salary is an important consideration for all of us, my experience is that money alone will not be enough to overcome a miserable work environment. It is my advice that one must balance compensation with a healthy work environment. That being said, your best strategy to maximize your compensation was when you were in school. Emphasize your diversity of experience (clinical programs, internships and work experience even nonlegal jobs). Think about the fact that there will be many candidates for the job you're seeking. Ask yourself 'why should you be hired over all the other candidates. Everyone looks good on paper, what do you bring to the table that the other candidates do not. Speaking a second language or studying abroad are examples of how you can distinguish yourself from the rest of the pack. Finally, do your homework and find out what the realistic salary range is being offered. Then using the above experiences, you can argue why you should be considered for the higher compensation.
What Attorney skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Michael Bolden Former First Justice/Boston Municipal Court/Retired: It is hard to predict what areas of law will become prevalent in the next few years, my advice to young attorneys is to train to become a quick study and nimble so you can pivot to new areas of law going forward. Also, make this willingness to learn new things known to your supervisor so they can support you in your willingness to stay current.
What will help Attorneys increase their earning potential?
Michael Bolden Former First Justice/Boston Municipal Court/Retired: My general advice to a graduate beginning their career in the law would be.....Do not think you have to make your ultimate career decision in your first job. As time goes on you may find out that what you thought you liked is not fulfilling and giving you the satisfaction you were hoping to get by being a lawyer. Give yourself permission to make a change in your career path while you hone your skills and gain experience. As a result, as you go forward keep your eyes and options open so you may end up in a place where you are getting the satisfaction you dreamed about practicing law.
What general advice would you give to an Attorney?
Kimberly Dasse: The concept of a legal career encompasses a wide array of roles, extending beyond the traditional associate-partner trajectory. I therefore recommend that law students plan early. While still in school, seek out internships or externships that afford opportunities to explore diverse roles, such as placements at non-profits, district attorney’s offices, public defender’s offices, and law firms. This type of exposure will help students to determine what roles align best with their personal circumstances, identity, and aspirations. Once a course is set, pursue that path with determination. As practitioners, they should strive to excel by applying their academic knowledge and life experiences to their work. Pose thoughtful questions that reflect genuine engagement and consideration for the work. Cultivate mentoring relationships with seasoned professionals who can offer guidance in navigating legal practice and office dynamics. The above steps are particularly important for first-generation professionals. As new entrants to the profession, one may not have a built-in or pre-existing network, so building connections early in law school can yield significant benefits later when transitioning into the profession.
What Attorney skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Kimberly Dasse: By taking the steps I have outlined above, new entrants will set themselves up for success by finding the right roles for themselves and developing valued skills.
What will help Attorneys increase their earning potential?
Kimberly Dasse: Lawyers must adeptly navigate a diverse array of roles, ranging from advisors to counselors to planners, writers, researchers, supervisors, and more. Aside from producing quality legal work, reflect on your other strengths and dedicate time to developing yourself further. A skilled lawyer who is also an excellent manager of people offers a unique set of skills that may appeal to upper legal management in your organization. As the legal landscape evolves, I believe two key skills will emerge: technology and teamwork. The integration of AI into legal services is reshaping the profession with more innovation on the horizon. For our clients, blockchain technology, data analytics, and digitized workplaces are becoming standard. Thus, technology will become more embedded into an array of fields, not just “techie” industries. Those who follow and understand technological developments will engage the worlds our clients live in, enhance their own efficiency within their firms and deliver cost-effective services. Consequently, I urge new entrants to deepen their technological understanding and remain abreast of advancements. Additionally, collaboration lies at the heart of legal work, but its dynamics are transforming. While a solid grasp of technology is pivotal for future legal careers, honing interpersonal skills is equally vital. The future legal team may encompass a wide range of professionals in virtual settings. Thus, lawyers with high emotional intelligence who are adept at motivating individuals, building teams, and integrating the work of diverse professionals will become a valued skill. Accordingly, as lawyers consider ways to develop their skills, they should consider refining their skills as managers, supervisors, or coaches.
What will help Attorneys increase their earning potential?
Ms. Debbie Snyder: New lawyers are primarily responsible for research and writing. If working in a law firm setting, new lawyers are known as associates and conduct legal research, draft legal documents such as motions, briefs, memos or contracts and collaborate with partners and/or senior associates to assist clients with their legal needs. Associates may help in preparing cases for trial by reviewing and analyzing documents, organizing evidence, and attending hearings and depositions. New attorneys working in-house (i.e. for a corporation) will assist the company with their legal needs, whether it involves litigation or transactional work. Assistant District Attorneys represent the government in prosecuting criminal cases. This work involves legal research and writing, evaluating cases and evidence and appearing in court. Public Defenders represent individuals who cannot afford to hire an attorney. They also perform legal research and writing, as well as counsel their clients and represent them in the courtroom.
What general advice would you give to an Attorney?
Charity Rohlfs J.D.: Find a mentor and be involved with your local legal associations. Porter Gale said, “your network is your net worth.” And, I couldn’t agree more! As a new paralegal, legal operations specialist, or attorney, growing your network helps in all aspects of your career. You will gain new skills, increase your business development ability, engage in meaningful volunteering opportunities, and truly find an area of law you want to specialize in.
What Attorney skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Charity Rohlfs J.D.: GenAI! Which means highlights the importance of skills like organization, communication, and consensus building. The legal field has historically been technology hesitant, but the pandemic and AI have forced the use and adaptation of technology. AI’s exponential growth will require new skills at a lightning fast pace. A bellwether in the legal field is eDiscovery as it requires the ability to organize massive amounts of information as well as clearly and concisely communicate the information. AI is helping paralegals and attorneys do just this! Finally, in a world that often hides behind screens, having the ability to build consensus and connect with others will be invaluable.
What will help Attorneys increase their earning potential?
Charity Rohlfs J.D.: Do your research and clearly communicate your ask with supporting evidence. A simple internet search will provide you actual salary ranges. An applicant then needs to take this information and explain why X is the amount based on individual specifics. Also, never negotiated against yourself—meaning sometimes you need to be silent and wait.
What general advice would you give to an Attorney?
Jennifer Thor: There are many ways to maximize your salary in this career field. First and foremost, is to keep your GPA up. GPA is a huge factor that law schools consider when making admissions decisions. Second, try and get some experience. Intern in an HR department; shadow a lawyer who practices in an area of law you are interested in; see if the local court takes on interns or maybe the local prosecutor's office; or volunteer with a civil rights organization that is fighting for principles that you care about. Lastly, improve your leadership skills. Join a campus group and help them achieve their goals. You do not have to become the president of the group, but you could maybe take on the chair of a committee.
What Attorney skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Jennifer Thor: The most important skill they can learn is effective communication. Legal Studies students need to be able to communicate both in writing and verbally. This is a skill that has always been an important one for legal studies students and it will be necessary in the future as well. Although AI can help with the drafting of certain documents and emails, it will not be able to help with client meetings, board presentations, arguing before a jury, and writing legal briefs. Taking advantage of courses offered at their university that improve their writing and speaking skills will make them a valuable asset to any organization they join.
What will help Attorneys increase their earning potential?
Jennifer Thor: First, Oakland University does not have a legal studies degree; however, through our Bachelor of Interdisciplinary Studies, students have been able to create their own legal studies program combining legal courses across multiple disciplines. The majority of legal studies students tend to go to law school after graduation. They typically want to continue learning about the law in order to become a lawyer. So for those graduates, I highly recommend speaking with a pre-law adviser as they begin their junior year. That adviser will give them information about taking the LSAT and what that student will need to do to make sure their application to law school is in perfect order. For those students who do not want to go to law school, but who want to work in a law firm, I recommend that they obtain a paralegal certificate. The combination of the law courses in their bachelor's degree and the procedural courses offered in a paralegal program will make that individual very attractive to law firms. Lastly, for those students who don't want to go to law school or work in a law firm, their legal studies degree is still very valuable. Many jobs require at least some understanding of the law. For example, working in HR requires knowledge about the various federal and state employment laws that impact wages and benefits. It also requires a general understanding of contract law and the law regarding workplace discrimination. Individuals working in a purchasing department need to understand contract law and depending on the type of items being purchased an understanding of the Uniform Commercial Code as well. I recommend that these students investigate different career paths and meet with their Career and Life Coaches on campus.
Mike Gunter Ph.D.
Director, Holt International AffairsRollins College
International Relations Faculty
What skills stand out on Attorney resumes?
Mike Gunter Ph.D.: From an undergraduate coursework perspective, diversity of courses taken. That combines with the level of difficulty of those courses, highlighting how a candidate has been challenged in several areas and met those challenges.
What soft skills should all Attorneys possess?
Mike Gunter Ph.D.: Critical thinking is what we emphasize most and what studies show employers value most. This applies to both oral presentations and the written word. The truth is, today's graduates will hold well over a dozen different jobs in their careers. Oftentimes, you will have little to no training for those jobs. You will need to learn on the job. Solid critical thinking skills are a huge asset in negotiating this process.
What hard/technical skills are most important for Attorneys?
Mike Gunter Ph.D.: Good writing will always be crucial. There are all types of audiences, of course, so you need to adjust accordingly. But even as technology changes, good writing will remain a valuable asset.
James Tomaszewski
Director of the Center for Professional DevelopmentUniversity of Cincinnati
College of Law
What skills stand out on Attorney resumes?
James Tomaszewski: Demonstrated commitment to a particular practice area, especially experiential learning opportunities such as externships and clinics.
What soft skills should all Attorneys possess?
James Tomaszewski: Engagement, Resilience, Responsiveness, Respectfulness, Integrity.
What hard/technical skills are most important for Attorneys?
James Tomaszewski: Excellent writing skills.
What skills will help Attorneys earn the most?
James Tomaszewski: Hard work, excellent writing, and interpersonal finesse.
Brenda Wakefield
Director, Philip C. Cook Low Income Taxpayer Clinic, Mark and Evelyn Trammell Professor & Clinical Professor of LawGeorgia State University
College of Law
What skills will help Attorneys earn the most?
Brenda Wakefield: Regarding maximizing earning potential, I think the most important thing that a tax attorney can do is take a long view of how a career can progress. On the one hand, some attorneys seek to maximize earnings right away in large law firms, and there are certainly many benefits to taking that approach. However, many firms value attorneys who have spent some time working for the government, either for the IRS, the Department of Justice Tax Division, the Joint Committee on Taxation, or the United States Tax Court. While government salaries typically are not as high as those found in the private sector, attorneys who have spent time in government service often find that when they choose to enter the private sector, their government experience allows them to command a premium in compensation that they receive from either law or accounting firms.
What hard/technical skills are most important for Attorneys?
Brenda Wakefield: Regarding hard/technical skills, there is a misperception that tax attorneys need to have strong backgrounds in mathematics, accounting, or finance. While these backgrounds can certainly be useful, they are by no means required. Really, the most important technical skills are an ability to read statutory language very closely and carefully; the ability to recognize when the tax code provides a clear answer to a question and when the code might suggest multiple answers; strong research, writing, logic, and problem-solving skills; and keen attention to detail.
What are the biggest trends we'll see in the Attorney job market given the pandemic?
Joel Silverman: I believe that the biggest trend we will see in the job market is that job seekers are going to have to become more flexible. Not only are they going to have to think about what is going to get them a job, but what are they going to bring to the table for an employer in a rapidly changing market? How can the recent graduate bring more than just the same old legal knowledge? Do they have marketing and sales experience? How can a new attorney help a firm with their social media presence? IT experience and remote learning/educating? Technology continues to evolve and shape the way in which we practice our craft and market our skills. The new graduate has the potential for a set of skills that the employer does not have and therefore, the graduate has to make that part of their practice shine.
What certifications/licenses/courses can have the biggest impact for Attorneys?
Joel Silverman: We are unique, in that we are looking for team players and attorneys that want to market and learn about the business of law. For us, it is imperative that an attorney keep an open mind towards learning about more than just the law, but about psychology, business, marketing, sales and the law. We aren't looking for experts, but those that want to grow in a more wholistic sense, within the practice of law.
How have salaries changed over time for Attorneys?
Joel Silverman: Absolutely. Salaries have gone up by 50%, since I started, 20 years ago. Unfortunately, the cost of education has gone up faster than the increase in salaries. With that said, an attorney truly has a sky's the limit to their salary. If an attorney can understand the business of the practice of law, then that attorney has a leg up on all other competition. The business of the practice will also change, based upon the firm you are working in, at the time. However, the end result is that the better you understand the business (which isn't taught in law school), then the more you will make within the practice.
What's a good job out of college for Attorneys?
Paula Smith: The first professional legal job out of law school covers every area of law and every geography. Every legal job provides opportunity for growth and experience in the profession. Students choose law firms, government agencies, and public interest jobs according to their interest and passion. Some graduates work in civil litigation, others work in criminal prosecution or criminal defense. Some choose a more client-centered practice area including family law, personal injury, or legal aid services.
Hanna Royce
Assistant Dean of Career ServicesUniversity of New Hampshire Franklin Pierce School of Law
Career Services Department
What are the biggest trends we'll see in the Attorney job market given the pandemic?
Hanna Royce: The pandemic has shown many law firms that their employees can work successfully in a remote environment. I expect to see more remote opportunities. Job seekers also need to be prepared to convey themselves professionally through virtual interviews.
What Attorney skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Hanna Royce: The key to success is to add new and relevant legal experience to their resume. If graduates are not taking on full-time roles, this could mean completing document review or project work on a contract basis.
What general advice would you give to an Attorney?
Hanna Royce: Graduates should keep their network active. This includes them taking the time to re-engage with the members of their network on a regular basis and continuing to make new contacts. They should make it a priority to stay in touch with their classmates and professors. They might be looking for a new position in the future, and their legal network can help them locate opportunities through the hidden job market.
Many graduates are securing remote positions. To be successful in a remote environment, employees need to make the extra effort to communicate and stay connected with colleagues. Even when employees are telecommuting, they should dress as if they are going into the office. This can help them with productivity and illustrate their professionalism when meeting with colleagues or clients.