BCG Attorney Search has released its most comprehensive salary guide yet: The Complete Attorney Compensation Report 2025–2026 – Definitive U.S. Legal Salary Guide. This groundbreaking analysis provides up-to-date insights into compensation trends across all attorney career levels, firm sizes, geographic regions, and practice areas.
Read full guide here: BCG Attorney Search’s Complete Attorney Compensation Report 2025–2026
Why This Report Matters
- BigLaw Premiums and Base Salaries
BigLaw first-year associates now start at $225,000 with annual bonuses around $20,000, while top equity partners earn well into the millions. - Massive Earnings Disparity Across Firm Sizes
Attorneys at BigLaw firms earn up to 340% more than peers at small firms.BCG ATTORNEY SEARCHBCG ATTORNEY SEARCH+1 - Geographic Compensation Gaps
Salaries vary significantly by region—mean attorney salaries in Washington D.C. reach approximately $238,990, outpacing many secondary markets.BCG ATTORNEY SEARCH - Practice Area Premiums
Specialization pays. Attorneys in antitrust, securities, and IP litigation enjoy compensation premiums of +25%, +22%, and +20%, respectively, compared to general practice.BCG ATTORNEY SEARCH+3BCG ATTORNEY SEARCH+3BCG ATTORNEY SEARCH+3 - Gains Beyond Law Firms
In-house counsel now earn about 75% of BigLaw levels, offering a competitive alternative. Public sector roles lag behind at around 27%, but may offer other professional and lifestyle advantages. - Historic Compensation Growth
First-year associate salaries surged 21% between 2021 and 2023, marking the sharpest increase in modern history. Bonuses, benefits, and remote work premiums have also expanded.
Know your worth in today’s legal market. Whether you’re an associate, partner, or considering a lateral move, BCG Attorney Search’s Complete Attorney Compensation Report 2025–2026 gives you the definitive breakdown of salaries across firm sizes, regions, and practice areas.
