Police Officer Police Officer Salary in San Diego, CA

Police Officer Salary in San Diego, CA

Updated on Mar 10, 2026
Position
City
Salary

How much does a Police Officer make in San Diego, CA?

The average salary for a Police Officer is $90,730 per year in San Diego, CA.
Yearly
Monthly
Weekly
Hourly
Graph depicting the yearly salary distribution for Police Officer jobs in San Diego, CA, showing an average salary of $90,730 with varying distribution percentages across salary ranges.
Graph depicting the monthly salary distribution for Police Officer jobs in San Diego, CA, showing an average salary of $7,561 with varying distribution percentages across salary ranges.
Graph depicting the weekly salary distribution for Police Officer jobs in San Diego, CA, showing an average salary of $1,745 with varying distribution percentages across salary ranges.
Graph depicting the hourly salary distribution for Police Officer jobs in San Diego, CA, showing an average salary of $44 with varying distribution percentages across salary ranges.

Becoming a Police Officer in San Diego, CA, can be a rewarding career choice. In this vibrant city, Police Officers earn a solid salary. The average yearly salary for a Police Officer in San Diego is around $90,730. This figure represents a strong foundation for many who choose this career path.


The salary range for Police Officers in San Diego shows a clear path for growth. Fresh recruits start at about $57,801 per year, while seasoned officers can earn up to $113,183 annually. These numbers reflect the value placed on experience and dedication. An ordered list of salaries by rank helps illustrate the progression:

  1. First Rank: $57,801
  2. Second Rank: $63,339
  3. Third Rank: $68,877
  4. Fourth Rank: $74,416
  5. Fifth Rank: $79,954
  6. Sixth Rank: $85,492
  7. Seventh Rank: $91,030
  8. Eighth Rank: $96,568
  9. Ninth Rank: $102,106
  10. Tenth Rank: $107,645
  11. Eleventh Rank: $113,183
  12. Twelfth Rank: $118,721
This list shows how salaries increase with rank and experience.

Police Officer jobs in San Diego, CA
View all Police Officer jobs in San Diego, CA

What are the highest paying cities for a Police Officer near San Diego, CA?

Job seekers interested in becoming police officers should look at cities near San Diego, CA. La Mesa, CA, offers the highest average salary for police officers at $101,943. Chula Vista, CA, follows closely with an average salary of $100,401. El Cajon, CA, offers an average salary of $76,545, which is also competitive. Consider these cities when looking for opportunities with good pay and benefits. Each location provides a chance to serve the community while earning a solid income.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Police Officer jobs near San Diego, CA, highlighting La Mesa, CA with the highest at $101,943 and El Cajon, CA with the lowest at $76,545.

  1. La Mesa, CA
    Average Salary: $101,943
    In La Mesa, residents enjoy a peaceful community with a strong focus on safety. Police officers here work closely with the community to maintain order. The La Mesa Police Department is well-regarded, offering opportunities for professional growth.
    Find Police Officer jobs in La Mesa, CA


  2. Chula Vista, CA
    Average Salary: $100,401
    Chula Vista offers a vibrant, multicultural environment where officers play a key role in community safety. With its diverse population, law enforcement here values understanding and cooperation. The Chula Vista Police Department is committed to serving and protecting all residents.
    Find Police Officer jobs in Chula Vista, CA


  3. El Cajon, CA
    Average Salary: $76,545
    El Cajon presents a suburban feel with a dedicated police force that prioritizes community engagement. Officers here enjoy working in a supportive environment that values teamwork. The El Cajon Police Department provides clear pathways for career advancement.
    Find Police Officer jobs in El Cajon, CA

What are the best paying companies for a Police Officer in San Diego, CA?

Top-paying Police Officer jobs in San Diego, CA, include positions with Amtrak and the PORT OF SAN DIEGO. These companies offer attractive salaries, often surpassing $100,000 annually. Job seekers might find both positions rewarding and well compensated.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Police Officer jobs in San Diego, CA, highlighting Amtrak with the highest at $111,988 and San Diego State University with the lowest at $66,780.

  1. Amtrak
    Average Salary: $111,988
    Amtrak provides police officer roles focusing on security within transit properties. Officers work at multiple stations within San Diego and throughout California.


  2. PORT OF SAN DIEGO
    Average Salary: $91,713
    The Port of San Diego employs police officers to ensure safety and security for its maritime operations. Officers patrol various locations, including the marinas and the Convention Center.


  3. San Diego Community College District
    Average Salary: $87,605
    This district offers police officer positions focused on campus safety. Officers work across multiple campuses, ensuring a secure environment for students and staff.


  4. U.S. Marine Corps
    Average Salary: $69,469
    The U.S. Marine Corps provides police officer roles for base security. Officers serve at the Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton and other facilities in San Diego.


  5. San Diego State University
    Average Salary: $66,780
    San Diego State University hires police officers to protect its large campus. Officers ensure safety and handle emergencies across the entire university area.

Currently 803 Police Officer job openings, nationwide.

View Police Officer Jobs in San Diego, CA

How's the job market for a Police Officer in the US?

Learn what a Police Officer does, how to become one, and understand the job outlook. Get simple steps to start your career as a Police Officer today.
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