Paralegals and Legal Assistants Salary in New York
Official Bureau of Labor Statistics Data - May 2024 - NY
Median Annual Salary in New York
$72,224
$34.72 / hour
▲ 22.0% above national avg
National Median
$59,200
$28.46 / hour nationally
COL-Adjusted Purchasing Power
$51,922
Missouri equivalent (COL: 139.1)
Paralegals and Legal Assistants Salary in New York
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th (Entry Level) | $38,279 |
| 25th Percentile | $52,001 |
| 50th (Median) | $72,224 |
| 75th Percentile | $99,669 |
| 90th (Top Earners) | $124,225 |
| Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics OEWS, May 2024 | |
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Cost of Living Adjusted Salary
The New York median salary of $72,224 for Paralegals and Legal Assistants has the purchasing power of approximately $51,922 in Missouri (the COL baseline state with index 100).
New York's higher cost of living (COL index: 139.1) reduces the real purchasing power of wages compared to lower-cost states.
COL data: MERIC 2024 State Cost of Living Index. Missouri = 100 baseline.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much do Paralegals and Legal Assistants make in New York?
Paralegals and Legal Assistants in New York earn a median annual salary of $72,224 per year ($34.72/hr) according to BLS OEWS data (May 2024). This is above the national median of $59,200.
Is New York a good state for Paralegals and Legal Assistants?
New York pays above the national average for paralegals and legal assistants, making it a competitive market for this occupation. Cost of living in New York is higher average (COL index: 139.1).
What is the cost-of-living adjusted salary for Paralegals and Legal Assistants in New York?
After adjusting for cost of living (COL index: 139.1 vs. Missouri baseline of 100), the $72,224 salary in New York has the purchasing power of approximately $51,922 in Missouri. Higher living costs in New York reduce real purchasing power.
How does New York compare to neighboring states for Paralegals and Legal Assistants salaries?
For detailed comparison across all states, see the full Paralegals and Legal Assistants salary page at the national level, which includes a complete 50-state salary table.
Top Paying Jobs in New York
| # | Job Title | Median Annual |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Anesthesiologists | $405,284 |
| 2 | Radiologists | $378,102 |
| 3 | Orthopedic Surgeons, Except Pediatric | $373,588 |
| 4 | Neurologists | $360,632 |
| 5 | Surgeons, All Other | $359,314 |
| 6 | Ophthalmologists, Except Pediatric | $331,694 |
| 7 | Psychiatrists | $304,754 |
| 8 | Physicians, Pathologists | $297,582 |
| Source: BLS OEWS May 2024 | ||
About Paralegals and Legal Assistants in New York
Paralegals and Legal Assistants work in their specialized field applying expertise and skills to deliver value in their organization. This occupation is part of the legal sector of the U.S. economy.
Education Required: Doctoral or professional degree