U.S. State Attorney Salary in 2025

In 2025, the role of a State Attorney remains critical to the U.S. legal system, offering both prestige and financial stability. Whether you’re exploring a career in public prosecution or simply curious about compensation, understanding how much state attorneys earn—and why—can help you make informed career decisions.

Average State Attorney Salary in 2025

As of 2025, the average annual salary for state attorneys in the United States falls within a broad range, depending on experience, location, and specialization.

Average Salary Range: $72,000 – $135,000
Median Salary: Around $103,000 per year
Hourly Rate Estimate: $35 – $65/hour, depending on location

Factors Influencing State Attorney Salaries

Several key variables impact how much a state attorney can earn:

1. Location

High-paying states: California, New York, Illinois, and Texas
Lower-paying states: Mississippi, West Virginia, Arkansas

2. Experience Level

Entry-Level (0–2 years): $70,000 – $85,000
Mid-Level (3–7 years): $90,000 – $110,000
Senior-Level (8+ years): $115,000 – $150,000+

3. Specialization

Attorneys specializing in cybercrime, white-collar crime, or environmental law may earn above average.

4. Jurisdiction Size

Large urban counties typically offer higher salaries and more robust benefits compared to rural areas.

5. Budget and Funding

State budgets significantly affect salaries. States with higher tax revenue tend to allocate more for public sector legal positions.

Take-Home Pay for a $103K Salary

If a state attorney earns the median salary of $103,000 in 2025, their take-home pay after federal and state taxes, FICA, and other deductions would roughly be:

Estimated Net Pay: $72,000 – $77,000 annually
Monthly Take-Home: $6,000 – $6,400

Note: This varies based on filing status, health insurance premiums, and retirement contributions.

Salary Comparison by Experience

Experience Level	Salary Range	Typical Titles
Entry-Level	$70K – $85K	Assistant State Attorney
Mid-Level	$90K – $110K	Lead Prosecutor, Senior Associate
Senior-Level	$115K–$150K+	Chief Prosecutor, Division Head

Job Outlook in 2025

The legal job market in 2025 remains stable, with a slight uptick in demand for public prosecutors due to:

Increased caseloads related to cybercrime and fraud
Renewed funding for criminal justice reform
A wave of retirements among Baby Boomer attorneys

Employment Growth:

Projected growth rate (2024–2026): 5%–7%

Education, Certification, and Licensure Impact

To become a state attorney, the following are essential:

Required:

J.D. (Juris Doctor) from an accredited law school
State Bar Licensure in the practicing jurisdiction

Optional but Beneficial:

Trial Advocacy Certification
Continuing Legal Education (CLE) in criminal law
Leadership or public administration coursework for career advancement

Attorneys with specialized training or dual degrees (e.g., J.D./MBA or J.D./MPA) may negotiate for higher pay or move into senior policy roles.

Benefits and Perks

While private sector jobs may offer higher salaries, public attorneys enjoy robust benefits:

Pension Plans and Retirement Accounts
Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance
Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) Eligibility
Generous Vacation and Sick Leave
Job Security and career development opportunities

Key Takeaways

$103,000 is the average state attorney salary in 2025.
Salaries vary based on location, experience, and specialization.
The job outlook is positive, especially in urban centers and for experienced prosecutors.
State attorneys enjoy excellent benefits, including loan forgiveness and pensions.

Final Thoughts

A career as a state attorney in 2025 offers more than just a paycheck—it provides the chance to serve the public while building a respected legal career. With a solid salary, job stability, and advancement opportunities, it’s a worthwhile path for passionate legal professionals.