Judge Salary in Kansas City, Missouri
The median judge salary in Kansas City, MO is $136,188 per year, which is 8% below the national median and 4.5% above the Missouri state average.
Judge Pay in Kansas City: What to Expect (2026)
Kansas City offers a median judge salary of $136,188, which is $5,922 above the Missouri state average of $130,266. Compared to the national median of $148,030, Kansas City pays below the national benchmark for this role.
Kansas City'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 Kansas City 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 508,090, Kansas City typically offers more job opportunities and employer competition, which can drive salaries higher.
Judge Salary in Kansas City by Experience
In Kansas City, 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 Kansas City, MO
| Percentile | Kansas City |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $53,360 |
| 25th Percentile | $82,800 |
| Median (50th) | $136,188 |
| 75th Percentile | $179,400 |
| 90th Percentile | $211,600 |
Judge Salary in Other Missouri Cities
How to Become a Judge in Kansas City
Education
Most judge positions require a doctoral degree. Kansas City and the surrounding Missouri 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 Kansas City may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Judge Jobs in Kansas City
Browse open judge positions in Kansas City, MO: