Judge Salary in Arkansas
The median judge salary in Arkansas is $124,345 per year, which is 16% below the national median of $148,030.
Judge Salary Overview in Arkansas (2026)
Arkansas ranks #48 out of 50 states for judge compensation. Judge salaries in Arkansas are below the national median, though the lower cost of living can offset the difference. At $124,345 per year, judges in Arkansas earn $23,685 less than the national median of $148,030.
A key advantage of working in Arkansas is its below-average cost of living (84% of the national index). This means the $124,345 salary has the purchasing power of roughly $148,030 in an average-cost area.
The salary spread in Arkansas is significant: judges at the 10th percentile earn $48,720, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $193,200 — a $144,480 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in Arkansas for this role is Fayetteville, where the median reaches $130,266.
Nationally, judge employment is projected to grow 3% over the next decade (as fast as average). This steady growth indicates stable demand for judges across the country.
Judge Salary in Arkansas by Experience
In Arkansas, an entry-level judge earns around $54,600, while experienced professionals earn up to $180,600 per year. The cost of living index in Arkansas is 84% of the national average.
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View Offers You Qualify For →Salary Percentiles in Arkansas
| Percentile | AR Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $48,720 |
| 25th Percentile | $75,600 |
| Median (50th) | $124,345 |
| 75th Percentile | $163,800 |
| 90th Percentile | $193,200 |
Judge Salary by City in Arkansas
The largest employment areas for judges in Arkansas include Little Rock, Fort Smith, Fayetteville, and Springdale. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.
How to Become a Judge in Arkansas
Education
Most judge positions require a doctoral degree. Arkansas has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Arkansas
Nationally, judge employment is projected to grow 3% over the next decade (as fast as average). Arkansas's demand may vary based on local industry trends.
Negotiate Your Way to Senior Pay
Data shows Judges who negotiate earn 7–15% more. A single negotiation could add $56,255 over your career trajectory.
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