Lawyer Salary in Hawaii
The median lawyer salary in Hawaii is $230,758 per year, which is 70.0% above the national median of $135,740.
Lawyer Salary Overview in Hawaii (2026)
Hawaii ranks #1 out of 50 states for lawyer compensation. This places Hawaii in the top tier nationally, making it one of the best states for lawyers seeking high pay. At $230,758 per year, lawyers in Hawaii earn $95,018 more than the national median of $135,740.
It's worth noting that Hawaii's cost of living is 170% of the national average, which reduces the real purchasing power of the $230,758 salary. After adjusting for cost of living, the effective salary is closer to $135,740.
The salary spread in Hawaii is significant: lawyers at the 10th percentile earn $110,500, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $406,640 — a $296,140 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in Hawaii for this role is Honolulu, where the median reaches $237,545.
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 Hawaii by Experience
In Hawaii, an entry-level lawyer earns around $119,000, while experienced professionals earn up to $374,000 per year. The cost of living index in Hawaii is 170% of the national average.
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View Offers You Qualify For →Salary Percentiles in Hawaii
| Percentile | HI Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $110,500 |
| 25th Percentile | $144,500 |
| Median (50th) | $230,758 |
| 75th Percentile | $316,200 |
| 90th Percentile | $406,640 |
Lawyer Salary by City in Hawaii
The largest employment areas for lawyers in Hawaii include Honolulu, Pearl City, Hilo, and Kailua. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.
How to Become a Lawyer in Hawaii
Education
Most lawyer positions require a doctoral degree. Hawaii has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Hawaii
Nationally, lawyer employment is projected to grow 8% over the next decade (faster than average). Hawaii's demand may vary based on local industry trends.
Negotiate Your Way to Senior Pay
Data shows Lawyers who negotiate earn 7–15% more. A single negotiation could add $143,242 over your career trajectory.
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