Judge Salary in Charleston, South Carolina
The median judge salary in Charleston, SC is $148,030 per year, which is 0.0% above the national median and 12.4% above the South Carolina state average.
Judge Pay in Charleston: What to Expect (2026)
Charleston offers a median judge salary of $148,030, which is $16,283 above the South Carolina state average of $131,747. Compared to the national median of $148,030, Charleston pays above average for this role.
Charleston's cost of living is 100% 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 Charleston spans from $58,000 at the 10th percentile to $230,000 at the 90th percentile — a $172,000 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $65,000, while senior judges with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $215,000. With a population of 150,227, Charleston is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.
Judge Salary in Charleston by Experience
In Charleston, an entry-level judge earns around $65,000, while experienced professionals earn up to $215,000 per year. The local cost of living index is 100% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Charleston, SC
| Percentile | Charleston |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $58,000 |
| 25th Percentile | $90,000 |
| Median (50th) | $148,030 |
| 75th Percentile | $195,000 |
| 90th Percentile | $230,000 |
Judge Salary in Other South Carolina Cities
How to Become a Judge in Charleston
Education
Most judge positions require a doctoral degree. Charleston and the surrounding South Carolina 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 Charleston may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Judge Jobs in Charleston
Browse open judge positions in Charleston, SC: