Business & Finance Missouri (MO) Rank #42 of 50

Paralegal Salary in Missouri

The median paralegal salary in Missouri is $52,096 per year, which is 12% below the national median of $59,200.

Median Salary
$52,096
vs National
$-7,104
State Rank
#42 of 50
Cost of Living
88%

Paralegal Salary Overview in Missouri (2026)

Missouri ranks #42 out of 50 states for paralegal compensation. Paralegal salaries in Missouri are below the national median, though the lower cost of living can offset the difference. At $52,096 per year, paralegals in Missouri earn $7,104 less than the national median of $59,200.

A key advantage of working in Missouri is its below-average cost of living (88% of the national index). This means the $52,096 salary has the purchasing power of roughly $59,200 in an average-cost area.

The salary spread in Missouri is significant: paralegals at the 10th percentile earn $33,792, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $81,312 — a $47,520 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 $54,464.

Nationally, paralegal employment is projected to grow 4% over the next decade (as fast as average). This steady growth indicates stable demand for paralegals across the country.

Paralegal Salary in Missouri by Experience

In Missouri, an entry-level paralegal earns around $35,200, while experienced professionals earn up to $74,800 per year. The cost of living index in Missouri is 88% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$35,200
$-4,800 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$52,800
$-7,200 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$74,800
$-10,200 vs national

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Salary Percentiles in Missouri

Percentile MO Salary
10th Percentile $33,792
25th Percentile $41,184
Median (50th) $52,096
75th Percentile $66,000
90th Percentile $81,312

Paralegal Salary by City in Missouri

The largest employment areas for paralegals 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 Paralegal in Missouri

Education

Most paralegal positions require a associate's degree. Missouri has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.

Key Skills

Legal ResearchDocument DraftingCase ManagementWestlaw/LexisNexisAttention to DetailCommunication

Job Outlook in Missouri

Nationally, paralegal employment is projected to grow 4% over the next decade (as fast as average). Missouri's demand may vary based on local industry trends.

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Frequently Asked Questions: Paralegal Salary in Missouri

How much does a Paralegal make in Missouri? ▼
The median paralegal salary in Missouri is $52,096 per year, which is 12% below the national median of $59,200. Salaries range from $33,792 (10th percentile) to $81,312 (90th percentile).
How much does a Paralegal make per hour in Missouri? ▼
Based on the median annual salary of $52,096, a paralegal in Missouri earns approximately $25 per hour assuming a standard 2,080-hour work year.
Is Missouri a good state for paralegals? ▼
Missouri ranks #42 out of 50 states for paralegal pay. The cost of living index is 88% of the national average. Entry-level paralegals earn $35,200, while senior professionals earn $74,800.
How does Missouri compare to other states for paralegal salary? ▼
The highest paying state for paralegals is Hawaii at $100,640. Missouri's median of $52,096 ranks #42 nationally. Nearby-ranked states include South Carolina ($52,688) and Tennessee ($52,688).
What is the entry-level paralegal salary in Missouri? ▼
An entry-level paralegal in Missouri earns approximately $35,200 per year. With 3-7 years of experience, pay increases to around $52,800. Senior-level professionals with 8+ years earn up to $74,800.
What city in Missouri pays paralegals the most? ▼
Kansas City is the highest paying city in Missouri for paralegals, with a median salary of $54,464. Other cities include Saint Louis and Springfield.