Judge Salary in Maryland
The median judge salary in Maryland is $162,833 per year, which is 10.0% above the national median of $148,030.
Judge Salary Overview in Maryland (2026)
Maryland ranks #9 out of 50 states for judge compensation. This places Maryland in the top tier nationally, making it one of the best states for judges seeking high pay. At $162,833 per year, judges in Maryland earn $14,803 more than the national median of $148,030.
It's worth noting that Maryland's cost of living is 110% of the national average, which reduces the real purchasing power of the $162,833 salary. After adjusting for cost of living, the effective salary is closer to $148,030.
The salary spread in Maryland is significant: judges at the 10th percentile earn $63,800, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $253,000 — a $189,200 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in Maryland for this role is Silver Spring, where the median reaches $180,597.
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 Maryland by Experience
In Maryland, an entry-level judge earns around $71,500, while experienced professionals earn up to $236,500 per year. The cost of living index in Maryland is 110% of the national average.
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View Offers You Qualify For →Salary Percentiles in Maryland
| Percentile | MD Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $63,800 |
| 25th Percentile | $99,000 |
| Median (50th) | $162,833 |
| 75th Percentile | $214,500 |
| 90th Percentile | $253,000 |
Judge Salary by City in Maryland
The largest employment areas for judges in Maryland include Baltimore, Columbia, Silver Spring, and Germantown. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.
How to Become a Judge in Maryland
Education
Most judge positions require a doctoral degree. Maryland has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Maryland
Nationally, judge employment is projected to grow 3% over the next decade (as fast as average). Maryland'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 $73,667 over your career trajectory.
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