BCG Attorney Search has published its highly anticipated 2025-2026 Complete Attorney Compensation Report, offering the most comprehensive analysis of legal salaries, bonuses, and market trends across the United States. This report is an essential tool for attorneys, law students, and legal employers navigating a competitive and rapidly evolving market.
Learn more from this guide: The Complete Attorney Compensation Report
Key Findings Show Salary Growth Across the Legal Market
According to BCG’s data, the national mean attorney salary has climbed to $176,470, with significant regional and practice-area variations. Attorneys in Washington, D.C. top the chart with a mean salary of $238,990—more than 180% higher than in Montana, the lowest-paying state.
Specialized practice areas such as antitrust, securities, and intellectual property litigation command the highest premiums, with attorneys in these fields earning 15–25% more than their peers in general practice.
The report also highlights how firm size impacts pay, with BigLaw first-year associates earning $225,000 plus bonuses, compared to $65,000 for solo practitioners. Equity partners at top AmLaw firms can earn between $1.5M and $3M annually.
Geographic Trends and Remote Work Effects
BCG’s analysis reveals that the Northeast and West Coast remain the highest-paying regions, but secondary markets are gaining ground. Thanks to remote work opportunities, attorneys in lower-cost states are increasingly able to command competitive salaries while enjoying higher purchasing power.
Implications for Attorneys and Law Firms
BCG’s report emphasizes that competition for talent remains fierce, driving aggressive salary increases and bonus structures. Firms that want to attract and retain top attorneys must continue to offer competitive compensation and advancement opportunities.
For attorneys, this report is more than just a salary snapshot—it is a strategic planning tool for lateral moves, practice area specialization, and geographic relocation.
Learn more from this guide: The Complete Attorney Compensation Report
