Judge Salary in Milwaukee, Wisconsin
The median judge salary in Milwaukee, WI is $136,188 per year, which is 8% below the national median and 0.0% above the Wisconsin state average.
Judge Pay in Milwaukee: What to Expect (2026)
Milwaukee offers a median judge salary of $136,188, which is $0 above the Wisconsin state average of $136,188. Compared to the national median of $148,030, Milwaukee pays below the national benchmark for this role.
Milwaukee's cost of living is 92% 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 Milwaukee spans from $53,360 at the 10th percentile to $211,600 at the 90th percentile — a $158,240 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $59,800, while senior judges with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $197,800. As a major metro area with a population of 577,222, Milwaukee typically offers more job opportunities and employer competition, which can drive salaries higher.
Judge Salary in Milwaukee by Experience
In Milwaukee, an entry-level judge earns around $59,800, while experienced professionals earn up to $197,800 per year. The local cost of living index is 92% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Milwaukee, WI
| Percentile | Milwaukee |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $53,360 |
| 25th Percentile | $82,800 |
| Median (50th) | $136,188 |
| 75th Percentile | $179,400 |
| 90th Percentile | $211,600 |
Judge Salary in Other Wisconsin Cities
How to Become a Judge in Milwaukee
Education
Most judge positions require a doctoral degree. Milwaukee 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 Milwaukee may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Judge Jobs in Milwaukee
Browse open judge positions in Milwaukee, WI: