Public Defender Salary in Salt Lake City, UT
How much does a public defender make in Salt Lake City? Explore median, entry-level, and senior salaries adjusted for Salt Lake City's cost of living.
Salary Breakdown by Experience Level
See how public defender salaries break down across different pay periods in Salt Lake City.
| Period | Entry Level | Median | Senior |
|---|---|---|---|
| Annual | $82,154 | $129,550 | $181,686 |
| Monthly | $6,846 | $10,796 | $15,141 |
| Biweekly | $3,160 | $4,983 | $6,988 |
| Weekly | $1,580 | $2,491 | $3,494 |
| Hourly | $39 | $62 | $87 |
Salt Lake City vs National Average
How Salt Lake City's public defender salaries compare to national figures.
Cost of Living in Salt Lake City
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
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Public Defender Salary in Salt Lake City, UT — Complete Guide
Median Salary Overview
The median salary for a public defender in Salt Lake City, UT is $129,550 per year, adjusted for the local cost of living index of 122. This figure reflects typical earnings for experienced professionals in this role, considering Salt Lake City's unique economic conditions.
Salary Range and Experience Levels
Entry-level public defender professionals in Salt Lake City can expect to earn around $82,154 annually. As professionals gain experience, salaries typically increase, with senior-level public defenders earning approximately $181,686 per year. This represents a 121% increase from entry to senior level.
Cost of Living Adjustment
Salt Lake City's cost of living index of 122 significantly impacts salary comparisons. As a higher cost-of-living city, salaries in Salt Lake City 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 Salt Lake City typically goes toward housing. With a 1-bedroom apartment averaging $1,700 per month, housing represents about 15.7% 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 Salt Lake City, this translates to increasing opportunities and potential for salary growth as demand for experienced professionals continues to rise.