Judge Salary in Louisville, Kentucky
The median judge salary in Louisville, KY is $136,188 per year, which is 8% below the national median and 5.7% above the Kentucky state average.
Judge Pay in Louisville: What to Expect (2026)
Louisville offers a median judge salary of $136,188, which is $7,402 above the Kentucky state average of $128,786. Compared to the national median of $148,030, Louisville pays below the national benchmark for this role.
Louisville's cost of living is 92% 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 Louisville spans from $53,360 at the 10th percentile to $211,600 at the 90th percentile — a $158,240 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $59,800, while senior judges with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $197,800. As a major metro area with a population of 633,045, Louisville typically offers more job opportunities and employer competition, which can drive salaries higher.
Judge Salary in Louisville by Experience
In Louisville, an entry-level judge earns around $59,800, while experienced professionals earn up to $197,800 per year. The local cost of living index is 92% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Louisville, KY
| Percentile | Louisville |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $53,360 |
| 25th Percentile | $82,800 |
| Median (50th) | $136,188 |
| 75th Percentile | $179,400 |
| 90th Percentile | $211,600 |
Judge Salary in Other Kentucky Cities
How to Become a Judge in Louisville
Education
Most judge positions require a doctoral degree. Louisville 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 Louisville may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Judge Jobs in Louisville
Browse open judge positions in Louisville, KY: