Lawyer Salary in Wilmington, Delaware
The median lawyer salary in Wilmington, DE is $142,527 per year, which is 5.0% above the national median and 4.0% above the Delaware state average.
Lawyer Pay in Wilmington: What to Expect (2026)
Wilmington offers a median lawyer salary of $142,527, which is $5,430 above the Delaware state average of $137,097. Compared to the national median of $135,740, Wilmington pays above average for this role.
Wilmington's cost of living is 105% 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 lawyers in Wilmington spans from $68,250 at the 10th percentile to $251,160 at the 90th percentile — a $182,910 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $73,500, while senior lawyers with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $231,000. Wilmington is a smaller market (pop. 70,898), which may mean fewer openings but also less competition for available positions.
Lawyer Salary in Wilmington by Experience
In Wilmington, an entry-level lawyer earns around $73,500, while experienced professionals earn up to $231,000 per year. The local cost of living index is 105% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Wilmington, DE
| Percentile | Wilmington |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $68,250 |
| 25th Percentile | $89,250 |
| Median (50th) | $142,527 |
| 75th Percentile | $195,300 |
| 90th Percentile | $251,160 |
Lawyer Salary in Other Delaware Cities
How to Become a Lawyer in Wilmington
Education
Most lawyer positions require a doctoral degree. Wilmington and the surrounding Delaware area have institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook
Nationally, lawyer employment is projected to grow 8% over the next decade (faster than average). Demand in Wilmington may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Lawyer Jobs in Wilmington
Browse open lawyer positions in Wilmington, DE: