Business & Finance Rhode Island (RI) Rank #13 of 50

Paralegal Salary in Rhode Island

The median paralegal salary in Rhode Island is $63,344 per year, which is 7.0% above the national median of $59,200.

Median Salary
$63,344
vs National
+$4,144
State Rank
#13 of 50
Cost of Living
105%

Paralegal Salary Overview in Rhode Island (2026)

Rhode Island ranks #13 out of 50 states for paralegal compensation. Rhode Island falls in the middle of the pack for paralegal pay, offering salaries near the national average. At $63,344 per year, paralegals in Rhode Island earn $4,144 more than the national median of $59,200.

Rhode Island's cost of living is near the national average at 105%, meaning paralegal salaries here translate closely to their face value in purchasing power.

The salary spread in Rhode Island is significant: paralegals at the 10th percentile earn $41,088, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $98,868 — a $57,780 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in Rhode Island for this role is Providence, where the median reaches $65,120.

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 Rhode Island by Experience

In Rhode Island, an entry-level paralegal earns around $42,800, while experienced professionals earn up to $90,950 per year. The cost of living index in Rhode Island is 105% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$42,800
+$2,800 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$64,200
+$4,200 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$90,950
+$5,950 vs national

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Salary Percentiles in Rhode Island

Percentile RI Salary
10th Percentile $41,088
25th Percentile $50,076
Median (50th) $63,344
75th Percentile $80,250
90th Percentile $98,868

Paralegal Salary by City in Rhode Island

The largest employment areas for paralegals in Rhode Island include Providence, Warwick, Cranston, and Pawtucket. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.

How to Become a Paralegal in Rhode Island

Education

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

Key Skills

Legal ResearchDocument DraftingCase ManagementWestlaw/LexisNexisAttention to DetailCommunication

Job Outlook in Rhode Island

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

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Frequently Asked Questions: Paralegal Salary in Rhode Island

How much does a Paralegal make in Rhode Island? ▼
The median paralegal salary in Rhode Island is $63,344 per year, which is 7.0% above the national median of $59,200. Salaries range from $41,088 (10th percentile) to $98,868 (90th percentile).
How much does a Paralegal make per hour in Rhode Island? ▼
Based on the median annual salary of $63,344, a paralegal in Rhode Island earns approximately $30 per hour assuming a standard 2,080-hour work year.
Is Rhode Island a good state for paralegals? ▼
Rhode Island ranks #13 out of 50 states for paralegal pay. The cost of living index is 105% of the national average. Entry-level paralegals earn $42,800, while senior professionals earn $90,950.
How does Rhode Island compare to other states for paralegal salary? ▼
The highest paying state for paralegals is Hawaii at $100,640. Rhode Island's median of $63,344 ranks #13 nationally. Nearby-ranked states include Virginia ($64,528) and New Hampshire ($63,344).
What is the entry-level paralegal salary in Rhode Island? ▼
An entry-level paralegal in Rhode Island earns approximately $42,800 per year. With 3-7 years of experience, pay increases to around $64,200. Senior-level professionals with 8+ years earn up to $90,950.
What city in Rhode Island pays paralegals the most? ▼
Providence is the highest paying city in Rhode Island for paralegals, with a median salary of $65,120. Other cities include Warwick and Cranston.