How to Become a Lawyers in Wisconsin
Lawyers in Wisconsin earn a median salary of $119,970/year, which is 21% below the national average. Wisconsin has a state income tax of ~4.4%. After taxes and rent, a lawyers takes home approximately $5,875/month. Most positions require Doctoral or professional degree.
What a lawyers can afford in Wisconsin
Becoming a lawyers in Wisconsin
Meet education requirements
Lawyers positions in Wisconsin typically require Doctoral or professional degree. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Wisconsin. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
This career typically involves none in Wisconsin. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.
Obtain Wisconsin licensure or certification
Wisconsin may require specific licensing or professional certification for lawyerss. Requirements vary by state — contact the Wisconsin Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.
Find positions in Wisconsin
Wisconsin employs 8,820 lawyers. The highest concentrations are in Milwaukee-Waukesha and Oshkosh-Neenah.
Lawyers salary by metro area in Wisconsin
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Milwaukee-Waukesha | $131K | $62.98/hr | 3,610 |
| Oshkosh-Neenah | $120K | $57.88/hr | 190 |
| Madison | $114K | $55.01/hr | 1,920 |
| Janesville-Beloit | $113K | $54.35/hr | 130 |
| Appleton | $109K | $52.3/hr | 250 |
| Wausau | $109K | $52.25/hr | 160 |
| Green Bay | $105K | $50.58/hr | 300 |
| Sheboygan | $105K | $50.43/hr | 80 |
| Kenosha | $102K | $49.24/hr | 150 |
| Fond du Lac | $101K | $48.49/hr | 70 |
| Eau Claire | $100K | $48.19/hr | 160 |
| La Crosse-Onalaska | $99K | $47.74/hr | 140 |
| Racine-Mount Pleasant | $98K | $47.3/hr | 180 |
Lawyers salary range in Wisconsin
Lawyers careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a lawyers make in Wisconsin?▼
The median lawyers salary in Wisconsin is $119,970 per year ($57.68/hr). This is 21% below the national median of $151,160. Salaries range from $63,300 to $0.
What are the requirements to become a lawyers in Wisconsin?▼
Lawyers positions in Wisconsin typically require Doctoral or professional degree. Wisconsin may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the Wisconsin licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a lawyers afford to live in Wisconsin?▼
At the median salary of $119,970, a lawyers in Wisconsin would take home approximately $7,287/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 19.4% of take-home pay going to housing. This is within the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for lawyers in Wisconsin?▼
The highest paying metro areas for lawyers in Wisconsin are Milwaukee-Waukesha ($131,000), Oshkosh-Neenah ($120,380), Madison ($114,420). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does Wisconsin have state income tax for lawyers?▼
Yes, Wisconsin has a state income tax rate of approximately 4.4%. On a $119,970 salary, this means roughly $5,312/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.