Lawyers Salary in Houston, TX

BLS Occupational Employment & Wage Statistics • May 2025 • Houston-Pasadena-The Woodlands, TX

Median annual salary $139,460 -7.7% vs national
Median hourly $67.05
10th percentile $54,990
90th percentile
Employed locally 17,290
National median $151,160

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    In Houston, Texas, the typical lawyer earns a median annual salary of $139,460, which translates to approximately $67.05 per hour. This figure is below the national median salary for lawyers, which stands at $151,160. When compared to the local household income in Houston, which averages $80,458 annually, lawyers earn significantly more than the average resident. This disparity highlights the higher earning potential within legal professions relative to other occupations in the area, even amidst a relatively low unemployment rate of 4.40%.

    The salary spectrum for lawyers in Houston varies considerably based on experience and seniority. Entry-level lawyers fall around the 10th percentile with earnings close to $54,990 annually, while those at the 25th percentile earn about $88,530 per year. In contrast, more experienced lawyers, particularly those reaching the 75th percentile, can expect significantly higher compensation, earning upwards of $212,080 annually. The variation in salaries is primarily driven by factors such as years of experience, specialization within law, firm size and reputation, and individual negotiation skills. These elements collectively contribute to the substantial difference in earnings between entry-level and seasoned professionals in the legal field.

    Salary percentile breakdown

    10th
    $54,990
    25th
    $88,530
    50th (median)
    $139,460
    75th
    $212,080

    Houston economic context

    Unemployment rate 4.40% 2024 annual avg • BLS LAUS
    Median household income $80,458 2023 • Census ACS
    Lawyers salary vs area income 173% Median Lawyers salary is 73% above the area median household income

    Frequently asked questions

    How much do Lawyers make per hour in Houston?

    The median hourly wage for Lawyers in Houston, TX is $67.05, based on BLS OEWS 2025 data. Top earners (90th percentile) make $174.58 or more per hour.

    Is Houston above or below average for Lawyers salaries?

    The median Lawyers salary in Houston, TX is 7.7% 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 Houston?

    Entry-level Lawyers (10th percentile) earn around $54,990 per year in Houston, TX. The 25th percentile — typically workers with 1–3 years of experience — earn approximately $88,530.