Judge Salary in Delaware
The median judge salary in Delaware is $149,510 per year, which is 1.0% above the national median of $148,030.
Judge Salary Overview in Delaware (2026)
Delaware ranks #15 out of 50 states for judge compensation. Delaware falls in the middle of the pack for judge pay, offering salaries near the national average. At $149,510 per year, judges in Delaware earn $1,480 more than the national median of $148,030.
Delaware's cost of living is near the national average at 101%, meaning judge salaries here translate closely to their face value in purchasing power.
The salary spread in Delaware is significant: judges at the 10th percentile earn $58,580, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $232,300 — a $173,720 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in Delaware for this role is Wilmington, where the median reaches $155,432.
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 Delaware by Experience
In Delaware, an entry-level judge earns around $65,650, while experienced professionals earn up to $217,150 per year. The cost of living index in Delaware is 101% of the national average.
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View Offers You Qualify For →Salary Percentiles in Delaware
| Percentile | DE Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $58,580 |
| 25th Percentile | $90,900 |
| Median (50th) | $149,510 |
| 75th Percentile | $196,950 |
| 90th Percentile | $232,300 |
Judge Salary by City in Delaware
The largest employment areas for judges in Delaware include Wilmington, Dover, Newark, and Middletown. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.
How to Become a Judge in Delaware
Education
Most judge positions require a doctoral degree. Delaware has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Delaware
Nationally, judge employment is projected to grow 3% over the next decade (as fast as average). Delaware'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 $67,640 over your career trajectory.
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