How much do Harvard Law graduates usually make after graduating?

Harvard Law graduates do tend to have strong employment and salary outcomes, but they vary quite a bit depending on career path. For those who go directly into large law firms, especially in major cities like New York, D.C., or Los Angeles, starting salaries are among the highest in the legal industry. Entry-level 'Big Law' salaries can start close to or above $200,000 for first-year associates. This is the most common path for Harvard Law grads, over half join these firms due to both the prestige and pay.

If a graduate chooses a smaller firm, public interest law, government, or academia, starting salaries can be much lower. Public interest roles or government jobs might start anywhere from $50,000 to $80,000 annually, though Harvard offers loan repayment assistance to help make those options viable.

The name recognition of Harvard Law absolutely opens doors and expands your options. Employers across the country (and internationally) recognize Harvard Law as a top-tier credential. If you're interested in working at a major firm, Harvard Law can make that path more accessible. But it's worth noting that the work-life balance in those firms can be demanding, and a fair number of grads switch to other paths after a few years.