Public Defender Salary in Los Angeles, CA
How much does a public defender make in Los Angeles? Explore median, entry-level, and senior salaries adjusted for Los Angeles's cost of living.
Salary Breakdown by Experience Level
See how public defender salaries break down across different pay periods in Los Angeles.
| Period | Entry Level | Median | Senior |
|---|---|---|---|
| Annual | $130,572 | $205,900 | $288,763 |
| Monthly | $10,881 | $17,158 | $24,064 |
| Biweekly | $5,022 | $7,919 | $11,106 |
| Weekly | $2,511 | $3,960 | $5,553 |
| Hourly | $63 | $99 | $139 |
Los Angeles vs National Average
How Los Angeles's public defender salaries compare to national figures.
Cost of Living in Los Angeles
About Public Defender
Overview
Defend individuals accused of crimes who cannot afford private attorneys.
Education
Juris Doctor (JD) and Bar license required
Key Skills
Growth Rate
Expected job growth: +13% over the next decade
Compare Cities: Public Defender Salary
See Public Defender salaries in other top cities.
Financial Tools to Explore
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Public Defender Salary in Los Angeles, CA — Complete Guide
Median Salary Overview
The median salary for a public defender in Los Angeles, CA is $205,900 per year, adjusted for the local cost of living index of 166. This figure reflects typical earnings for experienced professionals in this role, considering Los Angeles's unique economic conditions.
Salary Range and Experience Levels
Entry-level public defender professionals in Los Angeles can expect to earn around $130,572 annually. As professionals gain experience, salaries typically increase, with senior-level public defenders earning approximately $288,763 per year. This represents a 121% increase from entry to senior level.
Cost of Living Adjustment
Los Angeles's cost of living index of 166 significantly impacts salary comparisons. As a higher cost-of-living city, salaries in Los Angeles are adjusted accordingly. This means that while the nominal salary may appear higher or lower than the national average of $125,270, the actual purchasing power must be considered in context.
Housing and Affordability
A significant portion of a public defender's salary in Los Angeles typically goes toward housing. With a 1-bedroom apartment averaging $2,500 per month, housing represents about 14.6% of median salary. Financial experts generally recommend keeping housing expenses below 30% of gross income.
Career Growth and Opportunities
Public Defenders are in growing demand across the United States, with an expected job growth of 13% over the next decade. In Los Angeles, this translates to increasing opportunities and potential for salary growth as demand for experienced professionals continues to rise.