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Legal · New Jersey

How to Become a Lawyers in New Jersey

Lawyers in New Jersey earn a median salary of $158,470/year, which is 5% above the national average. New Jersey has a state income tax of ~5.0%. After taxes and rent, a lawyers takes home approximately $7,846/month. Most positions require Doctoral or professional degree.

$158K
Median salary in New Jersey
+5%
vs. national average
5.0%
State income tax
23,360
Employed in New Jersey

What a lawyers can afford in New Jersey

Gross annual salary$158,470
Est. monthly take-home (after fed + 5.0% state tax)$9,258/mo
Median 2BR rent (New Jersey)-$1,412/mo
Rent as % of take-home15.3% (within guideline)
Cost-of-living adjusted salary$158,470/yr (RPP: 100)
Monthly remaining after rent$7,846/mo

Becoming a lawyers in New Jersey

1

Meet education requirements

Lawyers positions in New Jersey typically require Doctoral or professional degree. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across New Jersey. Research accredited programs in your area.

2

Gain required experience

This career typically involves none in New Jersey. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.

3

Obtain New Jersey licensure or certification

New Jersey may require specific licensing or professional certification for lawyerss. Requirements vary by state — contact the New Jersey Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.

4

Find positions in New Jersey

New Jersey employs 23,360 lawyers. The highest concentrations are in Trenton-Princeton and Atlantic City-Hammonton.

Lawyers salary by metro area in New Jersey

Metro areaMedianHourlyEmployment
Trenton-Princeton$130K$62.66/hr2,100
Atlantic City-Hammonton$126K$60.79/hr620
Vineland$108K$51.85/hr150

Lawyers salary range in New Jersey

10th percentile (entry)
$79K
25th percentile
$105K
Median (50th)
$158K
75th percentile
$220K
90th percentile (senior)
$0
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Frequently asked questions

How much does a lawyers make in New Jersey?

The median lawyers salary in New Jersey is $158,470 per year ($76.19/hr). This is 5% above the national median of $151,160. Salaries range from $78,850 to $0.

What are the requirements to become a lawyers in New Jersey?

Lawyers positions in New Jersey typically require Doctoral or professional degree. New Jersey may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the New Jersey licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.

Can a lawyers afford to live in New Jersey?

At the median salary of $158,470, a lawyers in New Jersey would take home approximately $9,258/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 15.3% of take-home pay going to housing. This is within the recommended 30% guideline.

What are the best cities for lawyers in New Jersey?

The highest paying metro areas for lawyers in New Jersey are Trenton-Princeton ($130,330), Atlantic City-Hammonton ($126,440), Vineland ($107,840). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.

Does New Jersey have state income tax for lawyers?

Yes, New Jersey has a state income tax rate of approximately 5.0%. On a $158,470 salary, this means roughly $7,968/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.