Judge Salary in Portland, Oregon
The median judge salary in Portland, OR is $174,675 per year, which is 18.0% above the national median and 7.3% above the Oregon state average.
Judge Pay in Portland: What to Expect (2026)
Portland offers a median judge salary of $174,675, which is $11,842 above the Oregon state average of $162,833. Compared to the national median of $148,030, Portland pays above average for this role.
However, Portland's cost of living index is 118%, significantly above the national average. After adjusting for local costs, the $174,675 salary has an effective purchasing power of approximately $148,030. Housing, transportation, and food costs in Portland should be factored into any relocation or job-change decision.
The salary range for judges in Portland spans from $68,440 at the 10th percentile to $271,400 at the 90th percentile — a $202,960 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $76,700, while senior judges with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $253,700. As a major metro area with a population of 652,503, Portland typically offers more job opportunities and employer competition, which can drive salaries higher.
Judge Salary in Portland by Experience
In Portland, an entry-level judge earns around $76,700, while experienced professionals earn up to $253,700 per year. The local cost of living index is 118% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Portland, OR
| Percentile | Portland |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $68,440 |
| 25th Percentile | $106,200 |
| Median (50th) | $174,675 |
| 75th Percentile | $230,100 |
| 90th Percentile | $271,400 |
Judge Salary in Other Oregon Cities
How to Become a Judge in Portland
Education
Most judge positions require a doctoral degree. Portland and the surrounding Oregon 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 Portland may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Judge Jobs in Portland
Browse open judge positions in Portland, OR: