Judge Salary in Madison, Wisconsin
The median judge salary in Madison, WI is $148,030 per year, which is 0.0% above the national median and 8.7% above the Wisconsin state average.
Judge Pay in Madison: What to Expect (2026)
Madison offers a median judge salary of $148,030, which is $11,842 above the Wisconsin state average of $136,188. Compared to the national median of $148,030, Madison pays above average for this role.
Madison'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 Madison 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 269,840, Madison is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.
Judge Salary in Madison by Experience
In Madison, 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 Madison, WI
| Percentile | Madison |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $58,000 |
| 25th Percentile | $90,000 |
| Median (50th) | $148,030 |
| 75th Percentile | $195,000 |
| 90th Percentile | $230,000 |
Judge Salary in Other Wisconsin Cities
How to Become a Judge in Madison
Education
Most judge positions require a doctoral degree. Madison and the surrounding Wisconsin 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 Madison may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Judge Jobs in Madison
Browse open judge positions in Madison, WI: