Judge Salary in Rhode Island
The median judge salary in Rhode Island is $155,432 per year, which is 5.0% above the national median of $148,030.
Judge Salary Overview in Rhode Island (2026)
Rhode Island ranks #13 out of 50 states for judge compensation. Rhode Island falls in the middle of the pack for judge pay, offering salaries near the national average. At $155,432 per year, judges in Rhode Island earn $7,402 more than the national median of $148,030.
Rhode Island's cost of living is near the national average at 105%, meaning judge salaries here translate closely to their face value in purchasing power.
The salary spread in Rhode Island is significant: judges at the 10th percentile earn $60,900, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $241,500 — a $180,600 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in Rhode Island for this role is Providence, where the median reaches $159,872.
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 Rhode Island by Experience
In Rhode Island, an entry-level judge earns around $68,250, while experienced professionals earn up to $225,750 per year. The cost of living index in Rhode Island is 105% of the national average.
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View Offers You Qualify For →Salary Percentiles in Rhode Island
| Percentile | RI Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $60,900 |
| 25th Percentile | $94,500 |
| Median (50th) | $155,432 |
| 75th Percentile | $204,750 |
| 90th Percentile | $241,500 |
Judge Salary by City in Rhode Island
The largest employment areas for judges in Rhode Island include Providence, Warwick, Cranston, and Pawtucket. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.
How to Become a Judge in Rhode Island
Education
Most judge positions require a doctoral degree. Rhode Island has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Rhode Island
Nationally, judge employment is projected to grow 3% over the next decade (as fast as average). Rhode Island's demand may vary based on local industry trends.
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Data shows Judges who negotiate earn 7–15% more. A single negotiation could add $70,318 over your career trajectory.
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