Lawyers Salary in New Orleans, LA

BLS Occupational Employment & Wage Statistics • May 2025 • New Orleans-Metairie, LA

Median annual salary $131,220 -13.2% vs national
Median hourly $63.09
10th percentile $62,560
90th percentile $234,910
Employed locally 3,470
National median $151,160

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    In New Orleans, LA, the typical lawyer earns a median annual salary of $131,220, which translates to an hourly wage of approximately $63.09. This figure is below the national median for lawyers, which stands at $151,160. When compared to local household income in New Orleans, where the area median household income is $62,271, it becomes evident that a lawyer's earnings are substantially higher than those of the average household. Specifically, the salary of a typical lawyer is more than double the area median household income, highlighting the significant financial advantage held by professionals within this field relative to local residents.

    The wage disparity between entry-level and experienced lawyers in New Orleans is notable. Entry-level attorneys earn around $62,560 annually, which is at the 10th percentile, while those with more experience and expertise can command salaries upward of $164,130, reaching the 75th percentile. At the high end, some lawyers earn as much as $234,910 annually, reflecting the 90th percentile. This range underscores the impact that experience, specialization, and reputation have on earnings in the legal profession. As lawyers gain seniority and develop expertise in niche areas of law, they are likely to see significant salary increases, driven by factors such as client demand, case complexity, and market conditions within the local economy.

    Salary percentile breakdown

    10th
    $62,560
    25th
    $89,050
    50th (median)
    $131,220
    75th
    $164,130
    90th
    $234,910

    New Orleans economic context

    Unemployment rate 4.40% 2024 annual avg • BLS LAUS
    Median household income $62,271 2023 • Census ACS
    Lawyers salary vs area income 211% Median Lawyers salary is 111% above the area median household income

    Frequently asked questions

    How much do Lawyers make per hour in New Orleans?

    The median hourly wage for Lawyers in New Orleans, LA is $63.09, based on BLS OEWS 2025 data. Top earners (90th percentile) make $139.51 or more per hour.

    Is New Orleans above or below average for Lawyers salaries?

    The median Lawyers salary in New Orleans, LA is 13.2% 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 New Orleans?

    Entry-level Lawyers (10th percentile) earn around $62,560 per year in New Orleans, LA. The 25th percentile — typically workers with 1–3 years of experience — earn approximately $89,050.