Judge Salary in Texas
The median judge salary in Texas is $136,188 per year, which is 8% below the national median of $148,030.
Judge Salary Overview in Texas (2026)
Texas ranks #30 out of 50 states for judge compensation. Judge salaries in Texas are below the national median, though the lower cost of living can offset the difference. At $136,188 per year, judges in Texas earn $11,842 less than the national median of $148,030.
A key advantage of working in Texas is its below-average cost of living (92% of the national index). This means the $136,188 salary has the purchasing power of roughly $148,030 in an average-cost area.
The salary spread in Texas is significant: judges at the 10th percentile earn $53,360, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $211,600 — a $158,240 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in Texas for this role is Austin, 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 Texas by Experience
In Texas, an entry-level judge earns around $59,800, while experienced professionals earn up to $197,800 per year. The cost of living index in Texas is 92% of the national average.
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View Offers You Qualify For →Salary Percentiles in Texas
| Percentile | TX Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $53,360 |
| 25th Percentile | $82,800 |
| Median (50th) | $136,188 |
| 75th Percentile | $179,400 |
| 90th Percentile | $211,600 |
Judge Salary by City in Texas
The largest employment areas for judges in Texas include Houston, Dallas, Austin, and San Antonio. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.
How to Become a Judge in Texas
Education
Most judge positions require a doctoral degree. Texas has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Texas
Nationally, judge employment is projected to grow 3% over the next decade (as fast as average). Texas'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 $61,612 over your career trajectory.
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