Lawyers Salary in Cleveland, OH

BLS Occupational Employment & Wage Statistics • May 2025 • Cleveland, OH

Median annual salary $128,460 -15% vs national
Median hourly $61.76
10th percentile $65,070
90th percentile $233,540
Employed locally 5,220
National median $151,160

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    In Cleveland, OH, lawyers earn a median annual salary of $128,460, which is approximately $22,700 less than the national median of $151,160 for this profession. This local median income significantly surpasses the area's median household income of $68,507, indicating that lawyers in Cleveland have considerably higher earnings compared to typical households within the region. Despite earning less on average compared to their counterparts nationwide, lawyers in Cleveland still occupy a financially advantageous position relative to many other professions and the general population in the area.

    Entry-level lawyers in Cleveland earn around $65,070 annually, which is at the 10th percentile of income for this profession. As they gain experience and possibly move into more specialized or senior roles, salaries can rise significantly, with experienced lawyers earning up to $233,540 annually, reaching the 90th percentile. The difference in earnings between entry-level and seasoned professionals is driven by several factors, including years of practice, specialization within legal fields, demand for specific legal expertise, and performance-based increments. Additionally, those who establish successful private practices or work in high-demand sectors such as corporate law often see their incomes rise substantially compared to peers working in more routine roles.

    Salary percentile breakdown

    10th
    $65,070
    25th
    $89,130
    50th (median)
    $128,460
    75th
    $175,810
    90th
    $233,540

    Cleveland economic context

    Unemployment rate 3.80% 2024 annual avg • BLS LAUS
    Median household income $68,507 2023 • Census ACS
    Lawyers salary vs area income 188% Median Lawyers salary is 88% above the area median household income

    Frequently asked questions

    How much do Lawyers make per hour in Cleveland?

    The median hourly wage for Lawyers in Cleveland, OH is $61.76, based on BLS OEWS 2025 data. Top earners (90th percentile) make $135.47 or more per hour.

    Is Cleveland above or below average for Lawyers salaries?

    The median Lawyers salary in Cleveland, OH is 15% below the national median of $151,160. The national figure is from BLS OEWS 2025 data covering all US metropolitan areas.

    What is the entry-level salary for Lawyers in Cleveland?

    Entry-level Lawyers (10th percentile) earn around $65,070 per year in Cleveland, OH. The 25th percentile — typically workers with 1–3 years of experience — earn approximately $89,130.