Judge Salary in Hawaii
The median judge salary in Hawaii is $251,651 per year, which is 70.0% above the national median of $148,030.
Judge Salary Overview in Hawaii (2026)
Hawaii ranks #1 out of 50 states for judge compensation. This places Hawaii in the top tier nationally, making it one of the best states for judges seeking high pay. At $251,651 per year, judges in Hawaii earn $103,621 more than the national median of $148,030.
It's worth noting that Hawaii's cost of living is 170% of the national average, which reduces the real purchasing power of the $251,651 salary. After adjusting for cost of living, the effective salary is closer to $148,030.
The salary spread in Hawaii is significant: judges at the 10th percentile earn $98,600, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $391,000 — a $292,400 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in Hawaii for this role is Honolulu, where the median reaches $259,053.
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 Hawaii by Experience
In Hawaii, an entry-level judge earns around $110,500, while experienced professionals earn up to $365,500 per year. The cost of living index in Hawaii is 170% of the national average.
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View Offers You Qualify For →Salary Percentiles in Hawaii
| Percentile | HI Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $98,600 |
| 25th Percentile | $153,000 |
| Median (50th) | $251,651 |
| 75th Percentile | $331,500 |
| 90th Percentile | $391,000 |
Judge Salary by City in Hawaii
The largest employment areas for judges in Hawaii include Honolulu, Pearl City, Hilo, and Kailua. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.
How to Become a Judge in Hawaii
Education
Most judge positions require a doctoral degree. Hawaii has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Hawaii
Nationally, judge employment is projected to grow 3% over the next decade (as fast as average). Hawaii'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 $113,849 over your career trajectory.
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