Judge Salary in Houston, Texas
The median judge salary in Houston, TX is $142,109 per year, which is 4% below the national median and 4.3% above the Texas state average.
Judge Pay in Houston: What to Expect (2026)
Houston offers a median judge salary of $142,109, which is $5,921 above the Texas state average of $136,188. Compared to the national median of $148,030, Houston pays below the national benchmark for this role.
Houston's cost of living is 96% 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 Houston spans from $55,680 at the 10th percentile to $220,800 at the 90th percentile — a $165,120 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $62,400, while senior judges with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $206,400. As a major metro area with a population of 2,304,580, Houston typically offers more job opportunities and employer competition, which can drive salaries higher.
Judge Salary in Houston by Experience
In Houston, an entry-level judge earns around $62,400, while experienced professionals earn up to $206,400 per year. The local cost of living index is 96% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Houston, TX
| Percentile | Houston |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $55,680 |
| 25th Percentile | $86,400 |
| Median (50th) | $142,109 |
| 75th Percentile | $187,200 |
| 90th Percentile | $220,800 |
Judge Salary in Other Texas Cities
How to Become a Judge in Houston
Education
Most judge positions require a doctoral degree. Houston and the surrounding Texas 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 Houston may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Judge Jobs in Houston
Browse open judge positions in Houston, TX: