Judge Salary in Sacramento, California
The median judge salary in Sacramento, CA is $174,675 per year, which is 18.0% above the national median and 14.5% below the California state average.
Judge Pay in Sacramento: What to Expect (2026)
Sacramento offers a median judge salary of $174,675, which is $29,606 below the California state average of $204,281. Compared to the national median of $148,030, Sacramento pays above average for this role.
However, Sacramento's cost of living index is 118%, significantly above the national average. After adjusting for local costs, the $174,675 salary has an effective purchasing power of approximately $148,030. Housing, transportation, and food costs in Sacramento should be factored into any relocation or job-change decision.
The salary range for judges in Sacramento spans from $68,440 at the 10th percentile to $271,400 at the 90th percentile — a $202,960 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $76,700, while senior judges with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $253,700. As a major metro area with a population of 524,943, Sacramento typically offers more job opportunities and employer competition, which can drive salaries higher.
Judge Salary in Sacramento by Experience
In Sacramento, an entry-level judge earns around $76,700, while experienced professionals earn up to $253,700 per year. The local cost of living index is 118% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Sacramento, CA
| Percentile | Sacramento |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $68,440 |
| 25th Percentile | $106,200 |
| Median (50th) | $174,675 |
| 75th Percentile | $230,100 |
| 90th Percentile | $271,400 |
Judge Salary in Other California Cities
How to Become a Judge in Sacramento
Education
Most judge positions require a doctoral degree. Sacramento and the surrounding California area have institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook
Nationally, judge employment is projected to grow 3% over the next decade (as fast as average). Demand in Sacramento may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Judge Jobs in Sacramento
Browse open judge positions in Sacramento, CA: