How much does a Corrections Officer make?
If you’re considering a job as a Corrections Officer, knowing the salary can help you plan your career. The average yearly salary for a Corrections Officer is around $51,803. This number can change based on experience, location, and other factors.
The salary for Corrections Officers can vary widely. The lowest 10 percent earn less than $34,417. The highest 10 percent earn more than $82,283. Most officers fall somewhere in the middle. This range shows that with more experience, officers can expect higher pay.
What are the highest paying cities for a Corrections Officer?

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Washington, DC
Average Salary: $97,511
In Washington, DC, you'll find fulfilling work in a city that values public safety. You will support the local justice system by ensuring security in correctional facilities. The Department of Corrections employs many and offers a range of opportunities.
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Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $75,567
Seattle offers a vibrant community atmosphere while ensuring public safety. Here, you can work in modern facilities, supporting rehabilitation efforts. Companies like the Department of Corrections offer robust programs and training.
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Philadelphia, PA
Average Salary: $73,555
In Philadelphia, your role will help maintain order and safety in correctional centers. The city's justice system highly values your work. You can gain experience and develop skills with local institutions like the Philadelphia Department of Prisons.
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Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $70,663
Los Angeles provides dynamic and challenging work in a city known for its complex justice needs. You will be part of a large team ensuring safety and rehabilitation in the county's facilities. Employers like the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department offer strong support.
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Spokane, WA
Average Salary: $70,620
Spokane offers a smaller city feel with a strong sense of community. Here, you can make a significant impact in local correctional facilities. Working with the Spokane County Department of Corrections, you can expect a supportive environment with clear career growth.
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Raleigh, NC
Average Salary: $70,523
Raleigh provides a growing city experience with a focus on rehabilitation. Your work in the state’s correctional facilities helps ensure public safety. The North Carolina Department of Public Safety offers excellent training and development opportunities.
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Atlanta, GA
Average Salary: $68,956
In Atlanta, you can contribute to public safety in a vibrant and growing city. The city’s correctional facilities rely on dedicated professionals. Working for the Department of Corrections, you can find a supportive environment with plenty of advancement opportunities.
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Detroit, MI
Average Salary: $67,153
Detroit offers a unique opportunity to impact the community through correctional services. The city’s corrections department values stability and professional growth. Working here, you can expect a rewarding career in a dynamic city.
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Portland, OR
Average Salary: $66,415
Portland provides a progressive environment focused on rehabilitation. Your work will support public safety in state facilities. The Oregon Department of Corrections offers various programs to help you grow in your career.
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Madison, WI
Average Salary: $65,627
In Madison, you will contribute to public safety and rehabilitation in a city known for its community focus. The Department of Corrections here values your work and offers opportunities for professional development.
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What are the best companies a Corrections Officer can work for?

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Amergis Healthcare Staffing
Average Salary: $115,752
Amergis Healthcare Staffing offers Corrections Officer jobs with a strong focus on healthcare support. They provide positions at various state-managed facilities across the country. Their roles are often paired with opportunities for professional growth and competitive salaries.
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Career Connections, Inc.
Average Salary: $107,240
Career Connections, Inc. offers Corrections Officer jobs in several states. They emphasize a supportive work environment and offer roles with comprehensive benefits. They operate in multiple states, including California, Texas, and Florida.
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City of Lynnwood
Average Salary: $87,070
The City of Lynnwood provides Corrections Officer jobs with a focus on local law enforcement. They offer roles that support public safety in the Washington area. Positions include opportunities for community engagement and professional development.
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Washington State Department of Corrections
Average Salary: $86,832
The Washington State Department of Corrections offers Corrections Officer jobs with a focus on rehabilitation and public safety. They operate multiple facilities across the state, providing diverse job opportunities and a strong support network for employees.
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New York State
Average Salary: $83,817
New York State offers Corrections Officer jobs in various correctional facilities throughout the state. They focus on public safety and provide roles with excellent benefits and opportunities for career advancement.
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New York DECA
Average Salary: $83,817
New York DECA offers Corrections Officer jobs with a focus on rehabilitation and safety. They provide positions in numerous locations across New York. Their roles are designed to support the correctional system while offering professional growth.
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Oregon Department of Corrections
Average Salary: $81,713
The Oregon Department of Corrections offers Corrections Officer jobs with a focus on safety and rehabilitation. They operate several facilities across Oregon and offer positions that support the correctional system. Employees benefit from a supportive work environment.
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State of Washington
Average Salary: $78,950
The State of Washington offers Corrections Officer jobs in various correctional facilities. They focus on public safety and offer roles with a strong support network. Opportunities exist throughout the state, providing diverse job experiences.
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Federal Bureau of Prisons
Average Salary: $73,181
The Federal Bureau of Prisons provides Corrections Officer jobs with a focus on federal law enforcement. They offer positions at federal prisons across the country. Their roles support the federal correctional system and offer professional growth.
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Blue Earth County
Average Salary: $70,984
Blue Earth County offers Corrections Officer jobs with a focus on local law enforcement. They provide roles in correctional facilities in Minnesota. Their positions support the county's correctional system and offer opportunities for community engagement.
How to earn more as a Corrections Officer?
A career as a Corrections Officer offers several avenues to increase earnings over time. Job seekers can benefit from understanding the factors that influence salary in this field. With the right approach, it is possible to enhance earning potential while serving the community.
First, gaining experience plays a crucial role. Officers who stay in the role for several years often see a salary increase. Continuous learning and taking on additional responsibilities can lead to promotions. This progression can result in higher pay over time. Second, obtaining further education can significantly boost earnings. Many departments offer tuition reimbursement for advanced degrees in criminal justice or related fields. This can lead to higher positions and better pay. Third, specialization can also open doors to more lucrative opportunities. Areas such as cybersecurity, tactical operations, or training roles often pay more. Fourth, working in different shifts can be beneficial. Night and weekend shifts typically offer higher pay due to the demand. Finally, certifications in areas like first aid, CPR, or advanced security can add to an officer's resume and potentially increase salary.
By focusing on these factors, Corrections Officers can position themselves for a rewarding career with the potential for increased earnings.
Consider the following factors to enhance earning potential:
- Gain experience and seek promotions
- Obtain further education and advanced degrees
- Specialize in high-demand areas
- Work in high-demand shifts
- Earn additional certifications



