Administrative Law Judges, Adjudicators, and Hearing Officers Salary Guide 2025: $117,860 Median
Administrative Law Judges, Adjudicators, and Hearing Officers earned a median annual salary of $117,860 in 2024, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. The top 10% of earners made over $207,480, while the bottom 10% earned about $61,110. With roughly 16,370 positions nationwide, this is a specialized legal career with significant pay variation by state and experience.
How much Administrative Law Judges, Adjudicators, and Hearing Officers earn
The national median salary for this occupation is $117,860 per year, or about $57 per hour. The mean annual wage is $125,990. Most workers fall between $61,110 (10th percentile) and $207,480 (90th percentile), giving a wide range based on jurisdiction, case volume, and seniority.
Pay is heavily influenced by employer type. Federal administrative law judges typically earn higher salaries than state or local government counterparts. The BLS data covers all government levels and some private-sector hearing officers.
In the highest-paying industries, salaries can exceed the $207,480 top figure. However, entry-level positions—often at state agencies—may start near the lower end of the range.
- Median: $117,860
- Mean: $125,990
- Typical range: $61,110 to $207,480
- Employment: 16,370
Pay by state
Location dramatically affects earnings. The District of Columbia tops the list with an average annual salary of $181,060, driven by federal agencies. Indiana pays $145,290, followed by Alabama at $134,810, Maryland at $133,460, and Wisconsin at $132,250.
On the lower end, Idaho pays $65,050, Arkansas $63,660, and Delaware $56,830. These states may have fewer federal agencies or lower cost-of-living adjustments.
- Highest: D.C. ($181,060), Indiana ($145,290), Alabama ($134,810), Maryland ($133,460), Wisconsin ($132,250)
- Lowest: Idaho ($65,050), Arkansas ($63,660), Delaware ($56,830)
How to become an Administrative Law Judge, Adjudicator, or Hearing Officer
Most positions require a Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree from an accredited law school and active bar membership in the state where you work. Federal administrative law judges must also pass a competitive examination and be appointed through the Office of Personnel Management.
Experience is critical. Most administrative law judges have several years of legal practice, often in administrative, regulatory, or government law. Some states require a minimum of 5-to-7 years of legal experience. Additionally, hearing officers and adjudicators may enter through specialized agency training without a J.D., but advancement often needs the law degree.
- Earn a J.D. from an accredited law school.
- Pass the bar exam in your state.
- Gain 5–7 years of legal experience, preferably in administrative law.
- Apply for federal positions through USAJOBS; state positions vary.
- Consider alternative paths: some agencies hire non-attorney hearing officers with relevant expertise.
Job outlook
Employment is projected to decline by 0.7% from 2024 to 2034, a net loss of about 100 jobs over the decade. However, roughly 500 openings per year will arise from workers retiring or transferring to other occupations.
Competition for these positions is strong, as they offer high pay, job security, and public service. Job seekers with federal experience or specialized knowledge (e.g., Social Security, immigration, or labor law) will have an edge.
- Projected growth 2024–2034: -0.7% (Decline)
- Annual openings: ~500
- Primary driver: replacements for retirees
Frequently asked questions
What is the salary of an Administrative Law Judge in 2025?
The median annual salary is $117,860, with a mean of $125,990. The typical range is $61,110 to $207,480, according to BLS data.
Do you need a law degree to become an Administrative Law Judge?
Most positions require a J.D. and active bar membership. Federal judges must also pass a competitive exam. Some state hearing officer roles may not require a law degree, but advancement typically does.
What is the job outlook for Administrative Law Judges?
Employment is projected to decline by 0.7% from 2024 to 2034, with about 500 openings per year due to retirements and turnover. Competition is high.
Salary figures are U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates (OEWS / Employment Projections). For informational purposes only; not career or financial advice. See the full Administrative Law Judges, Adjudicators, and Hearing Officers data.