Lawyer Salary in Columbia, Missouri
The median lawyer salary in Columbia, MO is $119,451 per year, which is 12% below the national median and 0.0% above the Missouri state average.
Lawyer Pay in Columbia: What to Expect (2026)
Columbia offers a median lawyer salary of $119,451, which is $0 above the Missouri state average of $119,451. Compared to the national median of $135,740, Columbia pays below the national benchmark for this role.
One of Columbia's biggest advantages is its low cost of living at 88% of the national average. This means the $119,451 salary stretches further here — equivalent to roughly $135,740 in an average-cost city. This makes Columbia an attractive option for lawyers seeking strong real-dollar compensation.
The salary range for lawyers in Columbia spans from $57,200 at the 10th percentile to $210,496 at the 90th percentile — a $153,296 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $61,600, while senior lawyers with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $193,600. With a population of 126,254, Columbia is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.
Lawyer Salary in Columbia by Experience
In Columbia, an entry-level lawyer earns around $61,600, while experienced professionals earn up to $193,600 per year. The local cost of living index is 88% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Columbia, MO
| Percentile | Columbia |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $57,200 |
| 25th Percentile | $74,800 |
| Median (50th) | $119,451 |
| 75th Percentile | $163,680 |
| 90th Percentile | $210,496 |
Lawyer Salary in Other Missouri Cities
How to Become a Lawyer in Columbia
Education
Most lawyer positions require a doctoral degree. Columbia and the surrounding Missouri 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 Columbia may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Lawyer Jobs in Columbia
Browse open lawyer positions in Columbia, MO: