Incomes generally increase as the lawyer gains experience and becomes better known in the field. The beginning lawyer in solo practice may barely make ends meet for the first few years. The National Association for Law Placement reports that first-year associate lawyers earned median first-year base salaries of $200,000 in 2023. Salaries ranged from $150,000 to $215,000.
The average salary for real estate lawyers was $140,845 in 2025, according to ZipRecruiter.com. Earnings ranged from $49,500 to $289,000 or more.
Top real estate lawyers—especially those involved in commercial real estate—can earn more than $1 million a year.
Lawyers usually receive paid vacations and holidays, sick leave, hospitalization and insurance benefits, and pension programs. Some employers also offer profit-sharing plans. Lawyers who have their own firms must provide their own benefits.
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