The United States Supreme Court is the pinnacle of the American judiciary, and its Associate Justices hold one of the most respected legal positions in the nation. Along with their constitutional responsibilities, Associate Justices receive a structured salary and allowances package designed to reflect the prestige, importance, and lifetime commitment of the role.
This 2025 guide provides a complete overview of the salary, benefits, allowances, and financial considerations for US Supreme Court Associate Justices. It also addresses related questions about compensation, comparisons with other federal judges, and retirement benefits.
Overview of Associate Justice Salary
Associate Justices are appointed by the President and confirmed by the Senate. While the Chief Justice receives the highest salary, all Associate Justices enjoy a substantial base salary and comprehensive benefits.
Key Compensation Elements
-
Base Salary – Set by Congress and periodically updated
-
Allowances – Cover housing, relocation, travel, and official office expenses
-
Healthcare – Full access to federal health programs for justices and families
-
Retirement Benefits – Pension plans under the Federal Judicial Retirement System
-
Professional Support – Staff, clerks, and administrative assistance
2025 Salary Structure for Associate Justices
| Position | Annual Base Salary (USD) | Monthly Equivalent | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Associate Justice of the US | $285,500 | $23,792 | Equal pay among all Associate Justices |
Note: Salaries are approved by Congress and reflect the 2025 federal judicial pay scale.
Observation: Associate Justice salaries are significantly higher than those of federal appeals and district court judges, reflecting the lifetime responsibility and influence of the role.
Allowances and Additional Benefits
Beyond the base salary, Associate Justices receive several allowances that enhance their total compensation. These include:
1. Housing and Relocation Allowances
-
Justices may receive financial support for relocation to Washington, D.C.
-
Housing assistance may cover temporary lodging or moving costs
-
Ensures smooth transition into the capital city for judicial duties
2. Healthcare Benefits
-
Participation in the Federal Employees Health Benefits Program (FEHBP)
-
Coverage includes medical, dental, vision, and life insurance
-
Benefits extend to immediate family members
3. Retirement and Pension
-
Eligible for the Federal Judicial Retirement System
-
Pension formula considers years of service and age (Rule of 80: age + years of service = 80)
-
Typically allows 50–80% of final salary as pension after qualifying years
4. Travel and Official Expenses
-
Travel allowances for official court sessions, conferences, and ceremonial duties
-
Domestic travel reimbursed for work-related activities outside D.C.
5. Office and Staff Allowances
-
Justices receive administrative and research support
-
Provision of clerks, legal assistants, and office operational funds
-
Ensures access to legal research, drafting support, and efficient case preparation
6. Professional Development
-
Attendance at legal conferences and seminars may be funded by the court
-
Ongoing legal education through professional associations is supported
Comparison with Other Federal Judicial Roles
| Judicial Role | Annual Salary (USD, 2025) |
|---|---|
| Supreme Court Chief Justice | $298,500 |
| Supreme Court Associate Justice | $285,500 |
| Court of Appeals Judge | $218,600 |
| District Court Judge | $208,000 |
Insight: Associate Justices earn a higher base salary than all other federal judges due to the national significance of their role, lifetime tenure, and constitutional responsibilities.
Factors Affecting Compensation
-
Congressional Appropriations – Annual adjustments depend on federal legislation
-
Cost-of-Living Considerations – Salaries may be slightly adjusted for inflation
-
Tenure and Retirement – Benefits accumulate over long-term service
-
Ethics Rules – External income may be limited to prevent conflicts of interest
Career Path and Progression
Appointment and Entry
-
Associate Justices are appointed by the President and confirmed by the Senate
-
Many have prior experience as federal judges, legal scholars, or high-level attorneys
Longevity
-
Lifetime appointments provide job security and long-term pension accrual
-
Retirement benefits increase with age and years of service
Post-Retirement Perks
-
Retired justices receive pension payments and may retain office support
-
Travel allowances continue for official duties and ceremonial events
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
-
What is the salary of an Associate Justice in 2025?
$285,500 annually ($23,792 per month). -
Do Associate Justices get housing allowances?
Yes, for relocation and temporary housing in Washington, D.C. -
Are healthcare benefits included?
Yes, full coverage under FEHBP for justices and dependents. -
Do they receive retirement benefits?
Yes, through the Federal Judicial Retirement System. -
How is the salary determined?
Set by Congress and updated periodically based on federal appropriations. -
Do Associate Justices earn additional income externally?
Any external income must comply with federal ethics rules. -
Are salaries taxable?
Yes, federal salaries are subject to federal and possibly state taxes. -
Do justices receive travel allowances?
Yes, for official business and court-related travel. -
How does the pay compare with other federal judges?
Significantly higher, reflecting national responsibility and lifetime tenure. -
What benefits continue after retirement?
Pension, office support, and travel allowances for official activities.
Conclusion
The US Supreme Court Associate Justice salary and allowance structure in 2025 offers a combination of high base pay, comprehensive benefits, and lifetime security. With $285,500 in annual salary, along with healthcare, pension, housing, travel, and staff support, Associate Justices are well-compensated for their role in upholding the Constitution.
Lifetime appointments ensure long-term financial stability, while additional allowances and support reflect the unique responsibilities of serving on the nation’s highest court. Understanding this structure provides clarity for aspiring judges, legal scholars, and the public on how the US judiciary compensates its most senior officers.