Judge Salary in Buffalo, New York
The median judge salary in Buffalo, NY is $136,188 per year, which is 8% below the national median and 24.6% below the New York state average.
Judge Pay in Buffalo: What to Expect (2026)
Buffalo offers a median judge salary of $136,188, which is $44,409 below the New York state average of $180,597. Compared to the national median of $148,030, Buffalo pays below the national benchmark for this role.
Buffalo'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 Buffalo 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. With a population of 278,349, Buffalo is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.
Judge Salary in Buffalo by Experience
In Buffalo, 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 Buffalo, NY
| Percentile | Buffalo |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $53,360 |
| 25th Percentile | $82,800 |
| Median (50th) | $136,188 |
| 75th Percentile | $179,400 |
| 90th Percentile | $211,600 |
Judge Salary in Other New York Cities
How to Become a Judge in Buffalo
Education
Most judge positions require a doctoral degree. Buffalo and the surrounding New York 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 Buffalo may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Judge Jobs in Buffalo
Browse open judge positions in Buffalo, NY: