Judge Salary in South Carolina
The median judge salary in South Carolina is $131,747 per year, which is 11% below the national median of $148,030.
Judge Salary Overview in South Carolina (2026)
South Carolina ranks #40 out of 50 states for judge compensation. Judge salaries in South Carolina are below the national median, though the lower cost of living can offset the difference. At $131,747 per year, judges in South Carolina earn $16,283 less than the national median of $148,030.
A key advantage of working in South Carolina is its below-average cost of living (89% of the national index). This means the $131,747 salary has the purchasing power of roughly $148,030 in an average-cost area.
The salary spread in South Carolina is significant: judges at the 10th percentile earn $51,620, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $204,700 — a $153,080 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in South Carolina for this role is Mount Pleasant, where the median reaches $155,432.
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 South Carolina by Experience
In South Carolina, an entry-level judge earns around $57,850, while experienced professionals earn up to $191,350 per year. The cost of living index in South Carolina is 89% of the national average.
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View Offers You Qualify For →Salary Percentiles in South Carolina
| Percentile | SC Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $51,620 |
| 25th Percentile | $80,100 |
| Median (50th) | $131,747 |
| 75th Percentile | $173,550 |
| 90th Percentile | $204,700 |
Judge Salary by City in South Carolina
The largest employment areas for judges in South Carolina include Charleston, Columbia, Greenville, and North Charleston. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.
How to Become a Judge in South Carolina
Education
Most judge positions require a doctoral degree. South Carolina has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in South Carolina
Nationally, judge employment is projected to grow 3% over the next decade (as fast as average). South Carolina's demand may vary based on local industry trends.
Negotiate Your Way to Senior Pay
Data shows Judges who negotiate earn 7–15% more. A single negotiation could add $59,603 over your career trajectory.
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