How to Become a Paralegals and Legal Assistants in Georgia
Paralegals and Legal Assistants in Georgia earn a median salary of $55,120/year, which is 10% below the national average. Georgia has a state income tax of ~4.7%. After taxes and rent, a paralegals and legal assistants takes home approximately $2,234/month. Most positions require Associate's degree.
What a paralegals and legal assistants can afford in Georgia
Becoming a paralegals and legal assistants in Georgia
Meet education requirements
Paralegals and Legal Assistants positions in Georgia typically require Associate's degree. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Georgia. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many paralegals and legal assistants positions in Georgia require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.
Obtain Georgia licensure or certification
Georgia may require specific licensing or professional certification for paralegals and legal assistantss. Requirements vary by state — contact the Georgia Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.
Find positions in Georgia
Georgia employs 14,480 paralegals and legal assistants. The highest concentrations are in Atlanta-Sandy Springs-Roswell and Savannah.
Paralegals and Legal Assistants salary by metro area in Georgia
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Atlanta-Sandy Springs-Roswell | $60K | $28.76/hr | 10,810 |
| Savannah | $58K | $27.83/hr | 730 |
| Augusta-Richmond County | $50K | $23.89/hr | 420 |
| Gainesville | $47K | $22.79/hr | 180 |
| Columbus | $47K | $22.44/hr | 230 |
| Warner Robins | $47K | $22.37/hr | 80 |
| Rome | $46K | $22.32/hr | 80 |
| Brunswick-St. Simons | $46K | $21.87/hr | 110 |
| Valdosta | $46K | $21.88/hr | 130 |
| Albany | $45K | $21.82/hr | 120 |
| Athens-Clarke County | $45K | $21.82/hr | 170 |
| Macon-Bibb County | $45K | $21.8/hr | 390 |
| Dalton | $44K | $21.17/hr | 70 |
| Hinesville | $41K | $19.86/hr | 70 |
Paralegals and Legal Assistants salary range in Georgia
Paralegals and Legal Assistants careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a paralegals and legal assistants make in Georgia?▼
The median paralegals and legal assistants salary in Georgia is $55,120 per year ($26.5/hr). This is 10% below the national median of $61,010. Salaries range from $36,770 to $92,500.
What are the requirements to become a paralegals and legal assistants in Georgia?▼
Paralegals and Legal Assistants positions in Georgia typically require Associate's degree. Georgia may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the Georgia licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a paralegals and legal assistants afford to live in Georgia?▼
At the median salary of $55,120, a paralegals and legal assistants in Georgia would take home approximately $3,646/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 38.7% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for paralegals and legal assistants in Georgia?▼
The highest paying metro areas for paralegals and legal assistants in Georgia are Atlanta-Sandy Springs-Roswell ($59,810), Savannah ($57,890), Augusta-Richmond County ($49,680). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does Georgia have state income tax for paralegals and legal assistants?▼
Yes, Georgia has a state income tax rate of approximately 4.7%. On a $55,120 salary, this means roughly $2,575/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.