LegalOfficial Payroll Survey · 99/10010+ years
Staff / Lead Paralegal Salary in Los Angeles
2026 · Staff, lead, and principal-level professionals in the top 10% of earners.
$158,243/yr
Typical range: $121,888 – $155,447
P90 · BLS OEWS employer payroll data
Paralegal salary by experience level in Los Angeles
Paralegal Salary Progression in Los Angeles
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 | $53,989 | $4,499 | — |
| Junior | 2 yrs | 2 yrs | $72,606 | $6,051 | +34% |
| Mid-Level | 4 yrs | 4 yrs | $86,258 | $7,188 | +60% |
| Senior | 6 yrs | 6 yrs | $106,116 | $8,843 | +97% |
| StaffThis page | 10 yrs | 10 yrs | $158,243 | $13,187 | +193% |
| Principal | 14 yrs | 14 yrs | $217,817 | $18,151 | +303% |
| Distinguished | 18 yrs | 18 yrs | $232,710 | $19,393 | +331% |
Current Salary
$158,243
Staff / Lead · 10+ years
Hourly: $76/hr
Next Level Target
$217,817
Principal · 14
+$60Kpotential uplift
Career Opportunity
35/100
Below Average
+12% demand · Moderate AI risk
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the staff / lead Paralegal salary in Los Angeles, CA?
Staff / Lead Paralegals in Los Angeles, CA earn approximately $158K per year (2026). This corresponds to the P90 range of BLS OEWS employer payroll data.
How much does a staff / lead Paralegal make per hour in Los Angeles, CA?
Based on $158K annually, the hourly rate is approximately $76/hr (2,080-hour work year).
How do I get from staff / lead to senior Paralegal in Los Angeles, CA?
The typical progression takes 2–4 years with consistent skill development, project leadership, and strategic job moves. A senior Paralegal in Los Angeles, CA earns $122K–$155K/yr.