▼25%
$73,500
Avg. Base Salary (USD)
/ year
Avg. Base Salary (USD)
10%
$54k
MEDIAN
$74k
90%
$149k
The average salary for a Public Defender is $73,500 in 2025
Base Salary
$54k - $149k
Total Pay
$55k - $204k
Is Average Experienced Public Defender with Client Interaction Skills Salary your job title? Find out what you should be paid
Use our tool to get a personalized report on your market worth.What's this?
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What is the Pay by Experience Level for Public Defenders?
▼0%
What Do Public Defenders Do?
Find your market worth – how it works:
Common Health Benefits for a Public Defender
Medical
67%
Dental
67%
Vision
50%
None
33%
Gender Breakdown for Public Defenders
Female
75.0%
Male
25.0%
This data is based on 4 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 $149k / year
What is the lowest pay for Public Defenders?
Our data indicates that the lowest pay for a Public Defender is $54k / 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.