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Law Schools by State - 2024 Directory

Browse all 207 ABA-accredited law schools across 51 US states and territories. Compare state-by-state rankings, bar passage rates, and admission requirements to find your ideal law school.

207
Total Law Schools
51
States & Territories
21
Highest Count
California
4
Average per State

Top States for Legal Education - Law School Rankings by State

States with the highest concentration of ABA-accredited law schools, offering diverse specializations and career opportunities in legal markets ranging from BigLaw to public interest.

About Law Schools by State

21
Schools in California
Highest concentration
15
Schools in New York
Second highest
4
Average per State
Across all states

The United States has 207 ABA-accredited law schools distributed across 51 states and territories.

Key Factors When Choosing Law Schools by State

  • State Bar Exam Requirements: Each state has unique admission standards, testing formats, and minimum passing scores
  • Bar Reciprocity Agreements: Some states allow admission without examination for attorneys licensed elsewhere
  • In-State vs Out-of-State Tuition: Public law schools often offer significant discounts to state residents
  • State-Specific Legal Markets: Employment opportunities and starting salaries vary significantly by state

Browse our comprehensive state-by-state law school directory to compare programs, rankings, and admission requirements. Understanding each state's legal education landscape helps you make an informed decision about where to pursue your JD degree.

State-Specific Considerations

Bar Passage Rates

Compare first-time bar passage rates across states. California has the lowest pass rate at around 50%, while states like Missouri exceed 85%.

Cost of Living

Living expenses vary dramatically. NYC and San Francisco law students face the highest costs, while states like Iowa and Alabama offer more affordable options.

Employment Outcomes

Job placement rates and starting salaries differ by state. Major legal markets like New York and California offer higher salaries but more competition.

Practice Areas

States have different legal specializations. Delaware for corporate law, Texas for energy, DC for government, and California for technology and entertainment.