Lawyer Salary in Missouri
The median lawyer salary in Missouri is $119,451 per year, which is 12% below the national median of $135,740.
Lawyer Salary Overview in Missouri (2026)
Missouri ranks #42 out of 50 states for lawyer compensation. Lawyer salaries in Missouri are below the national median, though the lower cost of living can offset the difference. At $119,451 per year, lawyers in Missouri earn $16,289 less than the national median of $135,740.
A key advantage of working in Missouri is its below-average cost of living (88% of the national index). This means the $119,451 salary has the purchasing power of roughly $135,740 in an average-cost area.
The salary spread in Missouri is significant: lawyers at the 10th percentile earn $57,200, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $210,496 — a $153,296 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in Missouri for this role is Kansas City, where the median reaches $124,881.
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 Missouri by Experience
In Missouri, an entry-level lawyer earns around $61,600, while experienced professionals earn up to $193,600 per year. The cost of living index in Missouri is 88% of the national average.
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View Offers You Qualify For →Salary Percentiles in Missouri
| Percentile | MO Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $57,200 |
| 25th Percentile | $74,800 |
| Median (50th) | $119,451 |
| 75th Percentile | $163,680 |
| 90th Percentile | $210,496 |
Lawyer Salary by City in Missouri
The largest employment areas for lawyers in Missouri include Kansas City, Saint Louis, Springfield, and Columbia. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.
How to Become a Lawyer in Missouri
Education
Most lawyer positions require a doctoral degree. Missouri has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Missouri
Nationally, lawyer employment is projected to grow 8% over the next decade (faster than average). Missouri'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 $74,149 over your career trajectory.
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