Judge Salary in Maine
The median judge salary in Maine is $145,069 per year, which is 2% below the national median of $148,030.
Judge Salary Overview in Maine (2026)
Maine ranks #18 out of 50 states for judge compensation. Maine falls in the middle of the pack for judge pay, offering salaries near the national average. At $145,069 per year, judges in Maine earn $2,961 less than the national median of $148,030.
Maine's cost of living is near the national average at 98%, meaning judge salaries here translate closely to their face value in purchasing power.
The salary spread in Maine is significant: judges at the 10th percentile earn $56,840, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $225,400 — a $168,560 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in Maine for this role is Portland, where the median reaches $159,872.
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 Maine by Experience
In Maine, an entry-level judge earns around $63,700, while experienced professionals earn up to $210,700 per year. The cost of living index in Maine is 98% of the national average.
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View Offers You Qualify For →Salary Percentiles in Maine
| Percentile | ME Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $56,840 |
| 25th Percentile | $88,200 |
| Median (50th) | $145,069 |
| 75th Percentile | $191,100 |
| 90th Percentile | $225,400 |
Judge Salary by City in Maine
The largest employment areas for judges in Maine include Portland, Lewiston, Bangor, and South Portland. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.
How to Become a Judge in Maine
Education
Most judge positions require a doctoral degree. Maine has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Maine
Nationally, judge employment is projected to grow 3% over the next decade (as fast as average). Maine'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 $65,631 over your career trajectory.
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