Attorney Salary in San Francisco, CA
How much does a Attorney make in San Francisco, CA?
Attorneys in San Francisco, CA, earn a competitive salary. The average salary for an attorney in this city is around $160,124 per year. This figure can vary based on experience, specialization, and the type of law firm. For those just starting, salaries can range from $81,000 to $102,045 annually. As attorneys gain more experience, their salaries can increase significantly.
Experienced attorneys can earn between $123,091 and $144,136 per year. Those with a few years of experience can expect to make between $144,136 and $165,182 annually. Top-tier attorneys, often with many years of experience or in specialized fields, can earn upwards of $207,273 per year. Some attorneys, especially those in high-demand areas like corporate law, can earn even more, reaching up to $291,455 annually.
What are the highest paying cities for a Attorney near San Francisco, CA?

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Palo Alto, CA
Average Salary: $221,776
Palo Alto offers a dynamic environment for legal professionals. With tech giants like Google and Facebook nearby, opportunities for tech law are abundant. The city's vibrant community and high standard of living make it an attractive place to work.
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Sunnyvale, CA
Average Salary: $194,643
Sunnyvale is a hub for tech companies, making it a prime location for those in the tech law field. The city's growing population and business-friendly environment provide a fertile ground for legal careers. Opportunities for growth and networking are plentiful.
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Santa Clara, CA
Average Salary: $156,662
Santa Clara is known for its tech industry, offering many opportunities for legal professionals. The presence of major tech companies like Intel and Apple creates a demand for skilled attorneys. The city's diverse community and quality of life add to its appeal.
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San Jose, CA
Average Salary: $149,739
San Jose is a bustling city with a strong tech sector, providing numerous opportunities for legal careers. The city's vibrant economy and diverse population make it an exciting place to work. With many tech firms, there is a high demand for tech law expertise.
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Oakland, CA
Average Salary: $141,962
Oakland offers a unique blend of urban and suburban living, with a strong legal presence. The city's diverse community and growing tech industry provide many opportunities. The cost of living is moderate, making it an attractive option for many.
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Sausalito, CA
Average Salary: $141,000
Sausalito is a picturesque city with a small-town feel and big-city opportunities. The scenic beauty and relaxed atmosphere make it a great place to work. The presence of tech companies and a strong legal community offers diverse career options.
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San Mateo, CA
Average Salary: $137,778
San Mateo is known for its affluent community and strong tech industry. The city offers a high quality of life and many opportunities for legal professionals. The presence of major tech companies creates a demand for skilled attorneys.
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Menlo Park, CA
Average Salary: $137,525
Menlo Park is a vibrant city with a strong tech presence, offering many opportunities for legal careers. The city's innovative environment and proximity to major tech companies make it an attractive place to work. The community is diverse and welcoming.
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Napa, CA
Average Salary: $134,232
Napa is known for its wine country charm and growing tech industry. The city offers a unique blend of rural and urban opportunities. The presence of tech companies and a strong legal community provides diverse career options.
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Fremont, CA
Average Salary: $129,229
Fremont is a growing city with a strong tech sector, offering many opportunities for legal professionals. The city's diverse community and business-friendly environment make it an attractive place to work. The presence of major tech companies creates a demand for skilled attorneys.
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What are the best paying companies for a Attorney in San Francisco, CA?

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City and County of San Francisco
Average Salary: $214,756
The City and County of San Francisco offers a variety of legal positions. Attorneys work on city policies, contracts, and public interest cases. The company operates throughout San Francisco, CA.
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Illapa Search
Average Salary: $207,875
Illapa Search provides legal staffing services. Attorneys here work on placements and recruitment. The company operates in San Francisco, CA, and beyond.
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Wilson Elser
Average Salary: $194,286
Wilson Elser is a national law firm with a strong presence in San Francisco. Attorneys here handle litigation, intellectual property, and more. The company operates across the United States.
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Binding Minds
Average Salary: $184,000
Binding Minds focuses on legal tech and innovation. Attorneys here work on tech law, compliance, and more. The company operates in San Francisco, CA, and other tech hubs.
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USA Compression
Average Salary: $179,583
USA Compression specializes in compression therapy. Attorneys here handle intellectual property, contracts, and litigation. The company operates in San Francisco, CA.
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The State Bar of California
Average Salary: $178,542
The State Bar of California regulates the legal profession. Attorneys here work on policy, ethics, and licensing. The company operates throughout California.
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Wade Law Group
Average Salary: $171,667
Wade Law Group offers legal services in various areas. Attorneys here work on litigation, family law, and more. The company operates in San Francisco, CA.
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gpac
Average Salary: $169,258
gpac is a staffing firm specializing in legal placements. Attorneys here work on recruitment and job placement. The company operates in San Francisco, CA.
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Judicial Council of California
Average Salary: $166,127
The Judicial Council of California supports the state's court system. Attorneys here work on legal policy, administration, and more. The company operates throughout California.
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Lewis Brisbois Bisgaard & Smith LLP
Average Salary: $165,106
Lewis Brisbois Bisgaard & Smith LLP is a national law firm with a strong presence in San Francisco. Attorneys here handle litigation, employment law, and more. The company operates across the United States.
What are the best paying Attorney related jobs in San Francisco, CA?

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General Counsel
Average Salary: $225,753
This role involves providing legal advice to the company. It requires a deep understanding of corporate law. Companies like Google and Salesforce often hire for this position. They look for someone with experience in mergers and acquisitions.
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Patent Attorney
Average Salary: $212,625
This position focuses on intellectual property law. It involves protecting inventions and innovations. Tech firms such as Apple and Tesla hire for these roles. They seek attorneys who can navigate complex patent laws.
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Compliance Officer
Average Salary: $189,833
This job ensures the company follows all laws and regulations. It involves regular audits and reporting. Financial institutions like JPMorgan Chase and Wells Fargo often need these professionals. They look for individuals with strong attention to detail.
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Real Estate Attorney
Average Salary: $188,727
This role deals with property transactions and disputes. It involves understanding zoning laws and contracts. Real estate firms such as Zillow and Redfin hire these attorneys. They seek professionals with experience in property law.
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Counsel
Average Salary: $187,033
This position provides legal advice to the organization. It involves drafting legal documents and representing the company in court. Law firms like Orrick, Herrington & Sutcliffe and Wilson Sonsini Goodrich & Rosati hire for these roles. They look for experienced attorneys.
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Estate Planning Attorney
Average Salary: $160,000
This role helps individuals plan for the future. It involves creating wills and trusts. Wealth management firms like Charles Schwab and Fidelity Investments often hire these attorneys. They seek professionals with a focus on estate law.
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Research Attorney
Average Salary: $155,516
This position involves legal research and analysis. It requires a strong understanding of case law. Academic institutions and law firms hire for these roles. They look for attorneys with excellent research skills.
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Insurance Attorney
Average Salary: $152,282
This job deals with insurance claims and disputes. It involves understanding policy terms and regulations. Insurance companies like Allstate and State Farm hire for these roles. They seek professionals with experience in insurance law.
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Civil Rights Attorney
Average Salary: $151,827
This role focuses on protecting individual rights. It involves litigation and advocacy. Nonprofit organizations like the ACLU and Human Rights Watch hire for these roles. They look for attorneys committed to social justice.
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Legal Department Manager
Average Salary: $137,686
This position oversees the legal department. It involves managing a team of attorneys. Corporations like Apple and Microsoft hire for these roles. They seek experienced professionals with strong leadership skills.
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