How much does a Legal Assistant make in San Francisco, CA?
In San Francisco, a Legal Assistant can expect to earn a competitive salary. The average yearly salary for this role is around $85,617. This figure reflects the cost of living in one of the nation's most expensive cities. Salaries can vary based on experience, education, and the specific employer.
Here are some key points about Legal Assistant salaries in San Francisco:
- The lowest 10% of earners make about $44,540 per year.
- The highest 10% earn over $425,000 annually.
- Most Legal Assistants fall in the middle, earning between $79,127 and $113,715 per year.
These figures show that there is good potential for growth in this field. With experience and additional qualifications, a Legal Assistant can see significant salary increases.
What are the highest paying cities for a Legal Assistant near San Francisco, CA?

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Palo Alto, CA
Average Salary: $79,722
In Palo Alto, legal professionals often work in a fast-paced environment with tech giants like Google and Facebook. Assistants here support attorneys with document review and case management. The tech-centric culture offers a unique blend of legal and tech expertise.
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Santa Clara, CA
Average Salary: $77,962
Santa Clara is home to many tech companies, including Apple and Intel. Legal assistants here play a key role in intellectual property and contract management. The city's vibrant tech scene provides a dynamic work environment.
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Sunnyvale, CA
Average Salary: $74,600
Sunnyvale offers a mix of tech startups and established firms. Legal assistants here assist with litigation support and compliance. The city's growing tech industry creates many opportunities for career growth.
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San Mateo, CA
Average Salary: $72,135
San Mateo is known for its legal and financial services. Assistants here often work on real estate and corporate law. The city's professional atmosphere makes it a great place for legal careers.
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Berkeley, CA
Average Salary: $71,823
Berkeley, with its strong academic presence, offers a unique legal environment. Legal assistants here may support non-profits and advocacy groups. The city's progressive culture adds to the rewarding work experience.
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Redwood City, CA
Average Salary: $70,475
Redwood City is a hub for legal services, with many law firms and corporations. Assistants here handle a variety of tasks, from case preparation to client support. The city's professional environment is ideal for legal work.
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Livermore, CA
Average Salary: $70,048
Livermore is known for its national laboratories and tech companies. Legal assistants here often work on regulatory compliance and intellectual property. The city's focus on innovation offers a stimulating work environment.
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South San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $68,156
South San Francisco is a growing tech and biotech center. Legal assistants here support a range of industries, from pharmaceuticals to software. The city's diverse legal needs provide varied and interesting work.
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Oakland, CA
Average Salary: $60,167
Oakland offers a mix of legal services, from public interest to corporate law. Assistants here often work on community-focused cases and civil rights issues. The city's rich history and diverse community add depth to the work.
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Napa, CA
Average Salary: $59,214
Napa is known for its wine industry, but it also has a strong legal sector. Legal assistants here may work on real estate and estate planning. The city's scenic beauty and relaxed atmosphere make it a pleasant place to work.
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What are the best paying companies for a Legal Assistant in San Francisco, CA?

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Benesch Law
Average Salary: $113,150
Benesch Law offers Legal Assistant jobs with a focus on corporate law. The company operates in San Francisco, CA, and has a reputation for providing competitive salaries and benefits.
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City and County of San Francisco
Average Salary: $109,382
The City and County of San Francisco provides Legal Assistant positions in various departments. These roles offer a chance to work in a dynamic environment with a strong community focus.
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King & Spalding
Average Salary: $96,250
King & Spalding is a global law firm with Legal Assistant jobs in San Francisco, CA. The company offers a collaborative work environment and opportunities for professional growth.
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Womble Bond Dickinson
Average Salary: $91,667
Womble Bond Dickinson provides Legal Assistant roles with a focus on international law. The company operates in San Francisco, CA, and offers a supportive work culture.
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Lewis Roca
Average Salary: $88,333
Lewis Roca offers Legal Assistant jobs with a focus on litigation and corporate law. The company operates in San Francisco, CA, and provides a dynamic work environment.
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Adams & Martin Group
Average Salary: $85,500
Adams & Martin Group provides Legal Assistant roles with a focus on real estate and corporate law. The company operates in San Francisco, CA, and offers a collaborative work environment.
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The People Connection, Inc
Average Salary: $84,675
The People Connection, Inc offers Legal Assistant jobs with a focus on corporate law. The company operates in San Francisco, CA, and provides a supportive work culture.
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Frost Brown Todd LLC
Average Salary: $84,000
Frost Brown Todd LLC provides Legal Assistant roles with a focus on corporate law. The company operates in San Francisco, CA, and offers a dynamic work environment.
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Judicial Council of California
Average Salary: $79,310
The Judicial Council of California offers Legal Assistant jobs with a focus on public service. The company operates in San Francisco, CA, and provides a supportive work environment.
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Vaco
Average Salary: $76,500
Vaco provides Legal Assistant roles with a focus on corporate law. The company operates in San Francisco, CA, and offers a dynamic work environment.
What are the best paying Legal Assistant related jobs in San Francisco, CA?

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Compliance Officer
Average Salary: $187,000
This role ensures that companies follow laws and regulations. They work in various industries, including finance and healthcare. In San Francisco, they often collaborate with tech firms and startups.
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Legal Investigator
Average Salary: $181,500
They gather evidence and information for legal cases. This job involves interviewing witnesses and reviewing documents. In San Francisco, they often work for law firms and corporate legal departments.
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Law Associate
Average Salary: $169,186
Law Associates assist lawyers with case preparation and research. They often work in busy law firms. In San Francisco, they may support attorneys in tech and real estate law.
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Regulatory Affairs Specialist
Average Salary: $106,794
They ensure companies comply with industry regulations. This role involves working with government agencies. In San Francisco, they often support companies in the biotech and tech sectors.
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Contract Administrator
Average Salary: $106,246
They manage contracts from creation to completion. This job involves reviewing terms and ensuring compliance. In San Francisco, they often work with companies in the construction and tech industries.
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Judicial Assistant
Average Salary: $95,058
They support judges and courts in legal proceedings. This role involves organizing documents and managing schedules. In San Francisco, they often assist in federal and state courts.
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Legal Analyst
Average Salary: $93,025
They analyze legal documents and provide insights. This job involves research and data interpretation. In San Francisco, they often work for law firms and corporate legal departments.
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Paralegal
Average Salary: $90,239
They assist lawyers with case preparation and research. This role involves drafting documents and organizing files. In San Francisco, they often work in busy law firms and corporate legal departments.
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Litigation Assistant
Average Salary: $89,932
They support lawyers in litigation cases. This job involves case management and document review. In San Francisco, they often assist attorneys in high-profile cases.
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Legal Clerk
Average Salary: $61,250
They handle administrative tasks for legal professionals. This role involves filing documents and scheduling meetings. In San Francisco, they often work in busy law firms and corporate legal departments.
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