As one might expect, the potential income of a paralegal is higher in larger firms and in larger cities. A paralegal may perform a variety of tasks in a smaller firm. However, in a larger firm, where there are other paralegals or legal secretaries, he or she may only perform a limited number of tasks, repetitively. It would depend upon personal preference, which type of firm would be more suitable. Studies have shown that a paralegal's potential income also varies, depending on the location of the firm. Below is a chart that gives examples of the earning potential in many major cities. The paralegal that places potential income, high on his or her list of priorities, may want to consider one of these locations to advance their career.



http://www.payscale.com/research/US/Job=Paralegal/Salary/by_State

Experience & Education = Higher Income

How valuable are paralegals to attorneys?

According to BestParalegalSchools.com, the salary range for paralegals is based upon education and experience. Entry level paralegals can expect an average salary of $45,000. Comparatively, a paralegal with eight years or more experience in the legal field, can earn up to 68,000. Paralegals with experience levels between entry level and eight years, would fall somewhere between this range.
Salary is also based upon education. It is important to obtain a degree from an ABA (American Bar Assoc.) approved education program. It is recommended that paralegals complete a two-year Associates' Degree program. This degree will give an entry level paralegal the skills needed to be successful in his or her career. Education beyond an Associates' Degree and/or a high level of experience would be needed for a Paralegal Manager. Salary is also based upon the type of employer and its location.
As experience in the field is gained, the paralegal is given more responsibility by the attorney. He or she is also expected to perform routine job duties with little or no supervision. A paralegal with this type of responsibility is a great asset to the attorney; therefore, he or she is compensated monetarily. Studies show that the most substantial increase in a paralegal's income is associated with experience. The highest paid paralegals are Paralegal Managers, with an average salary of $86,000.
As you can see, a competent, experienced paralegal is very valuable to an attorney.
http://www.bestparalegalschools.com/paralegal-career/paralegal-salary.html?src=trl_paralegal
http://www.abanet.org/legalservices/paralegals/directory/home.html