Judge Salary in Lexington, Kentucky
The median judge salary in Lexington, KY is $137,668 per year, which is 7% below the national median and 6.9% above the Kentucky state average.
Judge Pay in Lexington: What to Expect (2026)
Lexington offers a median judge salary of $137,668, which is $8,882 above the Kentucky state average of $128,786. Compared to the national median of $148,030, Lexington pays below the national benchmark for this role.
Lexington's cost of living is 93% of the national average, meaning salary figures here closely reflect actual purchasing power. This makes direct comparisons to other cities straightforward.
The salary range for judges in Lexington spans from $53,940 at the 10th percentile to $213,900 at the 90th percentile — a $159,960 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $60,450, while senior judges with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $199,950. With a population of 322,570, Lexington is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.
Judge Salary in Lexington by Experience
In Lexington, an entry-level judge earns around $60,450, while experienced professionals earn up to $199,950 per year. The local cost of living index is 93% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Lexington, KY
| Percentile | Lexington |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $53,940 |
| 25th Percentile | $83,700 |
| Median (50th) | $137,668 |
| 75th Percentile | $181,350 |
| 90th Percentile | $213,900 |
Judge Salary in Other Kentucky Cities
How to Become a Judge in Lexington
Education
Most judge positions require a doctoral degree. Lexington and the surrounding Kentucky 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 Lexington may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Judge Jobs in Lexington
Browse open judge positions in Lexington, KY: