How Much Do Summer Associates Get Paid in 2026?

BigLaw summer associate compensation is based on the annualized first-year associate salary, prorated weekly. In 2026, that means most summers at market-rate firms earn approximately $4,230 per week.

The Math

The standard first-year BigLaw salary is $225,000. Divided by 52 weeks, that's roughly $4,327 per week. Most firms prorate to a round weekly number, typically around $4,230/week for a ten-week program.

For a standard ten-week summer: roughly $42,300 before taxes.

Which Firms Pay This?

The vast majority of AmLaw 100 firms pay at or near the Cravath scale rate. You can check individual firm compensation data in the firm directory. A handful of elite boutiques and some mid-size firms pay below market, but for BigLaw, the scale is remarkably uniform.

Other Compensation

Some firms add:

• Housing stipends, Common for summers in expensive cities or those relocating.
• Bar stipends, If you'll need to take the bar after your 3L year.
• Signing bonuses, Rare for summers but sometimes offered to clerkship candidates.

Does the Pay Vary by City?

The weekly rate is generally the same regardless of office location. A summer in New York and a summer in Houston at the same firm typically earn the same amount. The difference is in cost of living, your dollar goes much further outside NYC.

The Bottom Line

Summer associate pay is generous by any standard. Don't choose a firm based on marginal compensation differences, the pay is nearly identical across top firms. Focus on the work, the people, and the culture.