Federal government, lobbying, defense, professional services. Here's how Judge / Magistrates in Washington get paid in 2026.
How pay scales with career stage in the Washington metro market.
| Experience | Median 2026 | 25th % | 75th % |
|---|---|---|---|
| Entry (0–1 yr) | $157,200 | $119,500 | $204,400 |
| Junior (2–4 yrs) | $195,400 | $148,500 | $254,100 |
| Mid-Level (5–9 yrs) | $224,700 | $170,800 | $292,100 |
| Senior (10–14 yrs) | $269,600 | $204,900 | $350,500 |
| Veteran (15+ yrs) | $305,500 | $232,200 | $397,200 |
Highest-paying metros for Judge / Magistrates — useful if you're weighing a relocation.
Top occupations by median pay across the Washington metro economy.
The average Judge / Magistrate salary in the Washington metro is $224,700 per year as of 2026, with a typical range of $170,800 to $292,100 (25th–75th percentile). Top earners (90th percentile) make $370,800 or more.
Yes — Washington pays +6% relative to the Washington DC state median for Judge / Magistrates. Major metros typically concentrate higher-paying employers and command a wage premium over rural and small-city areas in the same state.
Washington vs. national: +38%. That puts Washington among the stronger US markets for Judge / Magistrates — though cost of living in Washington is also typically elevated.
In Washington, the median Judge / Magistrate salary of $224,700 typically corresponds to 5–9 years of experience (mid-level). Entry-level Judge / Magistrates in Washington start around $157,200, while seniors (10+ years) reach $269,600 or more.
Metro medians are useful benchmarks — but your exact number depends on your experience, education, and the specific employer. Run the free calculator for a personalized read.
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