LegalOfficial Payroll Survey · 99/1003–5 years
Mid Level Lawyer / Attorney Salary in San Francisco
2026 · Mid-career professionals with 3–5 years of experience at median market pay.
$242,794/yr
Typical range: $200,092 – $343,084
P25–P50 · BLS OEWS employer payroll data
Lawyer / Attorney salary by experience level in San Francisco
Lawyer / Attorney Salary Progression in San Francisco
From entry-level through staff — based on BLS OEWS percentile data
| Experience Level | Years | Percentile | Annual Salary | Monthly | vs Entry |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry | 0 yrs | 0 yrs | $151,965 | $12,664 | — |
| Junior | 2 yrs | 2 yrs | $204,366 | $17,031 | +34% |
| Mid-LevelThis page | 4 yrs | 4 yrs | $242,794 | $20,233 | +60% |
| Senior | 6 yrs | 6 yrs | $298,689 | $24,891 | +97% |
| Staff | 10 yrs | 10 yrs | $445,414 | $37,118 | +193% |
| Principal | 14 yrs | 14 yrs | $613,099 | $51,092 | +303% |
| Distinguished | 18 yrs | 18 yrs | $655,020 | $54,585 | +331% |
Current Salary
$242,794
Mid Level · 3–5 years
Hourly: $117/hr
Next Level Target
$298,689
Senior · 6
+$56Kpotential uplift
Career Opportunity
42/100
Below Average
+8% demand · Low AI risk
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the mid level Lawyer / Attorney salary in San Francisco, CA?
Mid Level Lawyer / Attorneys in San Francisco, CA earn approximately $243K per year (2026). This corresponds to the P25–P50 range of BLS OEWS employer payroll data.
How much does a mid level Lawyer / Attorney make per hour in San Francisco, CA?
Based on $243K annually, the hourly rate is approximately $117/hr (2,080-hour work year).
How do I get from mid level to senior Lawyer / Attorney in San Francisco, CA?
The typical progression takes 2–4 years with consistent skill development, project leadership, and strategic job moves. A senior Lawyer / Attorney in San Francisco, CA earns $343K–$438K/yr.