▼18%
$62,093
Avg. Base Salary (USD)
/ year
Avg. Base Salary (USD)
10%
$43k
MEDIAN
$62k
90%
$96k
The average salary for a Public Defender is $62,093 in 2025
Base Salary
$43k - $96k
Bonus
$964 - $10k
Profit Sharing
$2k - $5k
Total Pay
$42k - $103k
Is Average Public Defender Salary your job title? Find out what you should be paid
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What is the Pay by Experience Level for Public Defenders?
What Do Public Defenders Do?
Find your market worth – how it works:
How do Public Defenders Rate Their Jobs?
We currently don't have any reviews for this job and need at least 5 ratings before we can calculate a satisfaction score. Are you a Public Defender? Take our survey to help us meet this goal.
Common Health Benefits for a Public Defender
Medical
86%
Dental
67%
Vision
57%
None
14%
Gender Breakdown for Public Defenders
Female
63.6%
Male
36.4%
This data is based on 11 survey responses. Learn more about the gender pay gap.
FAQs About Public Defenders
What is the highest pay for Public Defenders?
Our data indicates that the highest pay for a Public Defender is $96k / year
What is the lowest pay for Public Defenders?
Our data indicates that the lowest pay for a Public Defender is $43k / year
How can Public Defenders increase their salary?
Increasing your pay as a Public Defender is possible in different ways. Change of employer: Consider a career move to a new employer that is willing to pay higher for your skills. Level of Education: Gaining advanced degrees may allow this role to increase their income potential and qualify for promotions. Managing Experience: If you are a Public Defender that oversees more junior Public Defenders, this experience can increase the likelihood to earn more.