How much does a General Counsel make in San Francisco, CA?
General Counsel in San Francisco earn an average yearly salary of $237,244. The range can vary widely, depending on experience and other factors. The median salary, which is the middle value, is $208,495.
Here are the key salary points based on the distribution:
- 25% of General Counsel earn between $136,680 and $184,556.
- 50% earn between $184,556 and $256,371.
- 75% earn between $256,371 and $328,185.
- The highest earners, at the 90th percentile, make over $376,062.
What are the highest paying cities for a General Counsel near San Francisco, CA?

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Livermore, CA
Average Salary: $317,680
In Livermore, legal professionals lead with a focus on clean tech companies, including Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory. Opportunities exist for those eager to work on cutting-edge tech projects. This city values innovation, making it a great place for legal minds with a tech-forward vision.
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Palo Alto, CA
Average Salary: $303,368
Palo Alto is home to tech giants like Google and Facebook. Working here means navigating high-stakes legal environments in one of the world’s tech capitals. It’s an exciting place for those passionate about tech law and keen to impact global tech policies.
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Mountain View, CA
Average Salary: $275,273
In Mountain View, being a legal professional means working closely with companies like Alphabet. The tech environment is dynamic and fast-paced, perfect for those who thrive in high-pressure settings and love the tech industry.
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Santa Clara, CA
Average Salary: $267,054
Santa Clara boasts a strong tech sector, including Apple and Intel. Legal roles here focus on managing complex corporate law issues. It’s ideal for those who enjoy a mix of tech and corporate law challenges.
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Redwood City, CA
Average Salary: $261,821
Redwood City is a hub for companies like Chewy and Dropbox. Legal professionals here engage with both startups and established companies. This city offers a mix of challenges and growth opportunities in a vibrant tech environment.
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Menlo Park, CA
Average Salary: $240,697
Menlo Park is known for its tech startups and established companies like Oracle. Legal roles here involve working on innovative projects. It’s an excellent place for those looking to make a mark in the tech law field.
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South San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $235,000
In South San Francisco, legal experts often work with biotech companies. This city offers a unique blend of legal challenges in the biotech sector. It’s a great place for those interested in health law and biotech innovations.
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Oakland, CA
Average Salary: $234,880
Oakland presents diverse legal opportunities, from tech startups to traditional companies. The city's rich culture and community engagement offer a unique backdrop for legal professionals seeking a dynamic work environment.
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San Mateo, CA
Average Salary: $230,519
San Mateo is home to companies like LinkedIn and other tech firms. Legal professionals here deal with a variety of issues from employment law to tech-related disputes. It’s an ideal place for those looking to balance tech law with a community-focused lifestyle.
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Alameda, CA
Average Salary: $220,098
In Alameda, legal professionals often work with tech companies and the government. This city offers a mix of challenges in both the private and public sectors. It’s a great place for those who enjoy working in a diverse legal environment.
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What are the best paying companies for a General Counsel in San Francisco, CA?

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OpenAI
Average Salary: $367,773
At OpenAI, General Counsel roles help shape the future of AI technology. The company operates in San Francisco, CA. The work involves advising on legal issues, risk management, and compliance.
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Rippling
Average Salary: $254,375
Rippling offers HR and IT solutions. General Counsels at Rippling work in San Francisco, CA. Their tasks include contract negotiations, compliance, and litigation management.
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Salesforce
Average Salary: $249,500
Salesforce provides cloud-based software. In San Francisco, CA, General Counsels manage legal affairs, corporate governance, and compliance. They ensure adherence to laws and regulations.
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Sigma Computing
Average Salary: $222,857
Sigma Computing specializes in data analytics. General Counsels work in San Francisco, CA. They handle legal matters, contracts, and compliance for the company.
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City College Of San Francisco
Average Salary: $211,153
City College Of San Francisco offers higher education. General Counsels in San Francisco, CA, manage legal issues for the college, including contracts and compliance.
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Wilson Elser
Average Salary: $204,375
Wilson Elser is a law firm. General Counsels in San Francisco, CA, provide legal advice and handle litigation for clients.
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Amazon.com
Average Salary: $178,527
Amazon offers a wide range of products and services. General Counsels in San Francisco, CA, work on legal issues, compliance, and corporate governance.
What are the best paying General Counsel related jobs in San Francisco, CA?

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Risk Management Director
Average Salary: $252,798
In top firms, these professionals oversee risk assessment and mitigation strategies. They work closely with senior management and legal teams. They ensure compliance with laws and company policies.
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Real Estate Attorney
Average Salary: $212,550
They handle legal matters related to property and land. They advise clients on buying, selling, and leasing properties. They ensure all transactions follow local laws and regulations.
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Patent Attorney
Average Salary: $209,364
They assist in protecting intellectual property. They draft and file patent applications. They help companies secure patents for their innovations.
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Regulatory Affairs Manager
Average Salary: $202,500
They ensure that a company adheres to laws and regulations. They work in industries such as healthcare and finance. They manage compliance and liaise with regulatory bodies.
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Estate Planning Attorney
Average Salary: $185,868
They help individuals plan the distribution of their assets. They create wills, trusts, and other estate planning documents. They provide guidance on tax implications and legal requirements.
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Compliance Officer
Average Salary: $180,714
They ensure that a company follows laws and regulations. They monitor and report on compliance issues. They work in various sectors like finance and healthcare.
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Attorney
Average Salary: $178,857
They represent clients in legal matters. They provide legal advice and defend clients in court. They handle a wide range of legal issues, from criminal to civil cases.
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Insurance Attorney
Average Salary: $166,966
They handle cases related to insurance claims and disputes. They advise clients on insurance policies. They represent clients in legal matters involving insurance.
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Legal Department Manager
Average Salary: $158,660
They oversee the legal department of a company. They manage legal staff and handle complex legal matters. They ensure the company complies with laws and regulations.
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