How Much Do Police Officers Make?
$65,790median annual salary
$31.63/hour · $5,483/month · BLS Code: 33-3051
Police officers protect lives and property, enforce laws, maintain order, and respond to emergencies. They patrol communities, investigate crimes, make arrests, and testify in court. Like firefighters, officers typically receive strong pensions and benefits that significantly increase total compensation.
Police Officer Salary at a Glance
Entry Level
$39,130
Starting salary
Median
$65,790
50th percentile
Senior Level
$92,000
Experienced professionals
Top 10%
$105,540
90th percentile
Salary Range
Salary by Experience Level
Top Paying States for Police Officers
#1
California
$107,440
#2
Washington
$93,310
#3
New Jersey
$91,780
#4
Alaska
$88,030
#5
Illinois
$87,400
Top Paying Cities for Police Officers
Education & Requirements
Education
High school diploma minimum; some departments require associate's or bachelor's degree; police academy training
Typical Degree
High School + Police Academy
Certifications
Job Outlook
+3%
Projected Growth (2022-2032)
665,380
Total Employed
BLS Outlook Category
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Police Officer Salary FAQ
How much do police officers make?
The median salary is about $65,790 nationally. California officers average $107,440 while officers in lower-cost states may start around $35,000-$40,000. Overtime, night differential, and detail pay can add 20-40%.
Do police officers get good retirement?
Yes. Most officers can retire after 20-25 years of service with a pension of 50-75% of their salary. Some departments offer retirement as early as age 45-50 with full benefits.
How long is police academy?
Police academy training typically lasts 13-19 weeks (about 4-5 months), followed by 12-18 months of field training with a senior officer.
Do you need a college degree to be a police officer?
Not always, but it helps. About 30% of departments now require at least an associate's degree. Having a bachelor's degree can lead to faster promotions and higher starting pay.
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Read moreSalary data is based on BLS Occupational Employment & Wage Statistics, industry surveys, and widely-reported compensation benchmarks. Figures are approximate and vary by location, employer, experience, and market conditions. This is educational content — not career or financial advice.