Judge Salary in Paterson, New Jersey
The median judge salary in Paterson, NJ is $155,432 per year, which is 5.0% above the national median and 8.7% below the New Jersey state average.
Judge Pay in Paterson: What to Expect (2026)
Paterson offers a median judge salary of $155,432, which is $14,803 below the New Jersey state average of $170,235. Compared to the national median of $148,030, Paterson pays above average for this role.
Paterson's cost of living is 105% 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 Paterson spans from $60,900 at the 10th percentile to $241,500 at the 90th percentile — a $180,600 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $68,250, while senior judges with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $225,750. With a population of 159,732, Paterson is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.
Judge Salary in Paterson by Experience
In Paterson, an entry-level judge earns around $68,250, while experienced professionals earn up to $225,750 per year. The local cost of living index is 105% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Paterson, NJ
| Percentile | Paterson |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $60,900 |
| 25th Percentile | $94,500 |
| Median (50th) | $155,432 |
| 75th Percentile | $204,750 |
| 90th Percentile | $241,500 |
Judge Salary in Other New Jersey Cities
How to Become a Judge in Paterson
Education
Most judge positions require a doctoral degree. Paterson and the surrounding New Jersey 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 Paterson may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Judge Jobs in Paterson
Browse open judge positions in Paterson, NJ: