Paralegal Salary in the USA
Paralegals assist lawyers by conducting legal research, drafting documents, organizing case files, and communicating with clients.
Paralegal Take Home Pay
On the average Paralegal salary of $58,000, you would take home $48,642 per year ($4,053.46 per month) after federal tax and FICA.
Effective tax rate: 16.1%|Marginal rate: 12%
Paralegal Salary by Location
Paralegal salaries vary significantly by region. California and New York typically offer the highest salaries but also have higher costs of living and state income taxes.
Paralegal Salary Growth (2020-2025)
See how Paralegal salaries have changed over the past 5 years, including inflation-adjusted real growth.
+19.9%
Total Growth
+$9,629
Salary Increase
+3.7%
Annual Growth Rate
-3.5%
Real Growth (Inflation Adj.)
Year-over-Year Changes
Key Skills Required
Typical Qualifications
- Paralegal certificate or degree
- Knowledge of legal procedures
- Strong computer skills
Paralegal Career Progression
What Does a Paralegal Do?
Industries Hiring Paralegals
Calculate Your Take Home Pay
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Your Income
Enter your salary details for 2025
✓ No state income tax
Pre-tax contribution (max $23,500 in 2025)
Pre-tax health savings (max $4,300 self / $8,550 family)
Take Home Pay
$48,641.50/year
83.9% of gross income
- Gross Income$58,000.00
- Taxable Income$43,000.00
- Federal Tax-$4,921.50
- State Tax (TX)-$0.00
- Social Security-$3,596.00
- Medicare-$841.00
- Total Deductions-$9,358.50
16.1%
Effective Rate
12%
Marginal Rate
$58,000 Salary Insights
Compare your salary and understand your tax breakdown
$58,000 vs US Wages
Below US median
-3%
vs US Median
$1,540
Below Median
Where Your $58,000 Goes
Annual breakdown of your salary
401(k) Tax Benefits on $58,000
See how 401(k) contributions reduce your tax bill
Increase your 401(k) contribution to see potential tax savings. Max contribution for 2025 is $23,500.
Paralegal Salary FAQ
What is the average Paralegal salary in the US?
The average Paralegal salary in the US is $58,000 per year. Salaries typically range from $40,000 for entry-level positions to $85,000 for senior roles.
How much does a Paralegal earn in California?
A Paralegal in California earns an average of $68,000 per year, which is 24% higher than the national average.
What is the take-home pay for a Paralegal?
On the average Paralegal salary of $58,000, you would take home approximately $48,642 per year ($4,053.46 per month) after federal income tax and FICA taxes.