Lawyer Salary in Arkansas
The median lawyer salary in Arkansas is $114,022 per year, which is 16% below the national median of $135,740.
Lawyer Salary Overview in Arkansas (2026)
Arkansas ranks #48 out of 50 states for lawyer compensation. Lawyer salaries in Arkansas are below the national median, though the lower cost of living can offset the difference. At $114,022 per year, lawyers in Arkansas earn $21,718 less than the national median of $135,740.
A key advantage of working in Arkansas is its below-average cost of living (84% of the national index). This means the $114,022 salary has the purchasing power of roughly $135,740 in an average-cost area.
The salary spread in Arkansas is significant: lawyers at the 10th percentile earn $54,600, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $200,928 — a $146,328 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in Arkansas for this role is Fayetteville, where the median reaches $119,451.
Nationally, lawyer employment is projected to grow 8% over the next decade (faster than average). This steady growth indicates stable demand for lawyers across the country.
Lawyer Salary in Arkansas by Experience
In Arkansas, an entry-level lawyer earns around $58,800, while experienced professionals earn up to $184,800 per year. The cost of living index in Arkansas is 84% of the national average.
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View Offers You Qualify For →Salary Percentiles in Arkansas
| Percentile | AR Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $54,600 |
| 25th Percentile | $71,400 |
| Median (50th) | $114,022 |
| 75th Percentile | $156,240 |
| 90th Percentile | $200,928 |
Lawyer Salary by City in Arkansas
The largest employment areas for lawyers in Arkansas include Little Rock, Fort Smith, Fayetteville, and Springdale. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.
How to Become a Lawyer in Arkansas
Education
Most lawyer positions require a doctoral degree. Arkansas has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Arkansas
Nationally, lawyer employment is projected to grow 8% over the next decade (faster than average). Arkansas's demand may vary based on local industry trends.
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Data shows Lawyers who negotiate earn 7–15% more. A single negotiation could add $70,778 over your career trajectory.
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