Police Officer Salary
Estimated Pay by Experience Level
Salary by State
Median annual| State | Median / yr | Relative pay |
|---|---|---|
| District of Columbia | $91,606 | |
| California | $86,979 | |
| Massachusetts | $86,814 | |
| New York | $85,923 | |
| Washington | $84,830 | |
| New Jersey | $79,814 | |
| Connecticut | $79,521 | |
| Oregon | $78,080 | |
| National Median | $72,280 |
How to Become a Police Officer
Police officers protect lives and property, respond to emergencies, patrol communities, and enforce laws.
Meet the education requirement
Most police officers enter the field with high school diploma or equivalent. Programs are offered by community colleges, trade schools, and universities.
Complete an accredited training program
Hands-on coursework and clinical or field experience prepare you for the work and for certification exams.
Earn the Police academy certification
Most employers expect this credential — and in many states it's required to practice. Entry pay starts near $47,705 and rises toward $105,529 with experience.
Police Officer salary: common questions
How much does a Police Officer make an hour?
The median hourly wage for police officers is $34.75, which works out to about $72,280 per year for full-time work.
Which state pays police officers the most?
District of Columbia has the highest median pay for police officers at $91,606 per year — 27% above the national median of $72,280.
What is the salary range for police officers?
Most police officers earn between $47,705 and $105,529 per year. The middle 50% earn $58,547 to $89,627, with a median of $72,280.
Is becoming a Police Officer a good career?
Employment is projected to grow 4% (as fast as average), and the role typically requires high school diploma or equivalent. With a median wage of $72,280 per year, it pays well above the U.S. median for all occupations.