Manhattan vs Topeka: Paralegal Salary (2026)
Compare paralegal salaries between Manhattan, KS and Topeka, KS. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Manhattan, KS | Topeka, KS |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $49,571 | $52,117▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $23.84 | $25.06▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $37,636 | $39,096▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $40,566 | $46,880▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $61,806▲ | $61,237 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $75,894 | $76,949▲ |
| Total Employed | 70 | 350▲ |
Verdict
Topeka, KS offers better overall compensation for paralegals, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Manhattan.
The salary gap between Manhattan and Topeka is $2,546 (5.14%). Topeka's median is -19.94% compared to the US national median of $65,097.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Manhattan spans $38,258,Topeka spans $37,853. Manhattan has a wider pay range, meaning more potential for high earners but also more variation.
Cost-of-Living Adjusted Comparison
After cost-of-living adjustment, Topeka ($58,677 effective) pays 6.72% more than Manhattan ($54,980 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Manhattan if…
- ✓You prefer the Kansas area and lifestyle
Choose Topeka if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($52,117/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($76,949)
- ✓Larger job market (350 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $58,677)
- ✓You prefer the Kansas area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, paralegal salaries in Manhattan grew 54.6% from 2020 to 2025, compared to 24.9% growth in Topeka over the same period.
Manhattan, KS
$30,970 (2020) → $47,890 (2025)
Topeka, KS
$40,300 (2019) → $50,350 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Manhattan, KS
Topeka, KS
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays paralegals more: Manhattan or Topeka?
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Written by Jessica Tran, JD
Career Analyst
Jessica Tran has 10 years of experience in paralegal studies. She specializes in corporate law and works with a law firm. She trains new paralegals in legal research and documentation.
Methodology & Data Source
All salary figures are 2026 projections based on BLS OEWS May 2025 data. A 3.51% CAGR (derived from 6-year national BLS trends) was applied to estimate current compensation. Cost-of-living adjustments use BEA Regional Price Parity data. Actual salaries vary by employer, certifications, and experience.
Data Sources & Methodology
Source: BLS, OEWS , released .
Compiled and verified by Jessica Tran, JD, a licensed paralegal with 10+ years of clinical experience. · View source data at BLS.gov