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How much does a Law Enforcement Officer make?

The average salary for a Law Enforcement Officer is $64,461 per year in the US.

Law enforcement officers play a vital role in keeping communities safe. Their work is demanding, but it's also rewarding. The average yearly salary for a law enforcement officer is $64,461. This figure can vary based on experience, location, and the specific role within law enforcement.

Factors that can influence salary include the officer's rank, the size of the community they serve, and the state they work in. Some officers may earn more due to overtime pay or special assignments. For example, officers in larger cities or those with specialized skills often see higher salaries. The data shows that salaries range from $39,450 to $109,000 per year. This range reflects the diverse opportunities available in law enforcement careers.

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What are the highest paying cities for a Law Enforcement Officer?

Nashville, TN, offers some of the highest salaries for law enforcement officers, with an average of $83,470. Washington, DC, follows closely with an average salary of $82,685. Baton Rouge, LA, also provides a competitive salary of $82,569. For those seeking top pay, these cities present excellent opportunities. Oklahoma City, OK, and Chicago, IL, offer average salaries of $77,000 and $74,486, respectively. Sacramento, CA, and Indianapolis, IN, provide average salaries of $65,872 and $61,565. Bakersfield, CA, and Modesto, CA, offer average salaries of $60,426 and $60,000. Raleigh, NC, rounds out the list with an average salary of $59,972.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Law Enforcement Officer jobs, highlighting Nashville, TN with the highest at $83,470 and Raleigh, NC with the lowest at $59,972.
  1. Nashville, TN
    Average Salary: $83,470
    In Nashville, officers work to maintain peace and safety in a vibrant city. The Nashville Police Department offers a range of opportunities for growth and development. Officers often engage with the community through various programs.
    Find Law Enforcement Officer jobs in Nashville, TN


  2. Washington, DC
    Average Salary: $82,685
    Serving in Washington, DC, means being part of a dynamic and historic city. Officers here protect key landmarks and work with federal agencies. The Metropolitan Police Department provides extensive training and career advancement.
    Find Law Enforcement Officer jobs in Washington, DC


  3. Baton Rouge, LA
    Average Salary: $82,569
    In Baton Rouge, officers play a crucial role in ensuring the safety of the community. The Baton Rouge Police Department is known for its strong community ties and offers various specialized units. Officers here enjoy a supportive environment.
    Find Law Enforcement Officer jobs in Baton Rouge, LA


  4. Oklahoma City, OK
    Average Salary: $77,000
    Oklahoma City offers a rewarding career for law enforcement professionals. Officers work to keep the city safe and secure. The Oklahoma City Police Department provides excellent training and opportunities for career growth.
    Find Law Enforcement Officer jobs in Oklahoma City, OK


  5. Chicago, IL
    Average Salary: $74,486
    In Chicago, officers face unique challenges and rewards. The Chicago Police Department is one of the largest in the nation, offering diverse experiences. Officers here are part of a large, well-respected force.
    Find Law Enforcement Officer jobs in Chicago, IL


  6. Sacramento, CA
    Average Salary: $65,872
    Sacramento provides a balanced environment for law enforcement. Officers here work to maintain peace and order in the capital city. The Sacramento Police Department offers a range of programs and training opportunities.
    Find Law Enforcement Officer jobs in Sacramento, CA


  7. Indianapolis, IN
    Average Salary: $61,565
    In Indianapolis, officers contribute to the safety and well-being of the community. The Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department offers a variety of career paths and development opportunities. Officers here are known for their dedication.
    Find Law Enforcement Officer jobs in Indianapolis, IN


  8. Bakersfield, CA
    Average Salary: $60,426
    Bakersfield offers a rewarding career for those in law enforcement. Officers here work to protect and serve a growing community. The Bakersfield Police Department provides a supportive environment and opportunities for growth.
    Find Law Enforcement Officer jobs in Bakersfield, CA


  9. Modesto, CA
    Average Salary: $60,000
    In Modesto, officers play a vital role in maintaining public safety. The Modesto Police Department offers a range of training and development opportunities. Officers here are committed to serving their community.
    Find Law Enforcement Officer jobs in Modesto, CA


  10. Raleigh, NC
    Average Salary: $59,972
    Raleigh provides a dynamic environment for law enforcement professionals. Officers here work to ensure the safety and security of the city. The Raleigh Police Department offers a supportive and progressive work environment.
    Find Law Enforcement Officer jobs in Raleigh, NC

What are the best companies a Law Enforcement Officer can work for?

Job seekers looking for top-paying roles as Law Enforcement Officers should consider positions with the State of Louisiana. This employer offers an average salary of $85,197. Monterrey Security and Signal also provide competitive salaries, with averages of $80,000 and $64,870, respectively. These companies offer attractive compensation packages for those in law enforcement.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Law Enforcement Officer jobs, highlighting State of Louisiana with the highest at $85,197 and Virginia Community College System with the lowest at $47,476.
  1. State of Louisiana
    Average Salary: $85,197
    The State of Louisiana offers rewarding careers in law enforcement. Officers work in various locations across the state, ensuring public safety and upholding the law. Opportunities exist in major cities like New Orleans and Baton Rouge, as well as smaller towns.


  2. Monterrey Security
    Average Salary: $80,000
    Monterrey Security provides law enforcement roles with competitive pay. Officers work in diverse environments, including corporate facilities, events, and private properties. Locations span across multiple states, offering dynamic and varied experiences.


  3. Signal
    Average Salary: $64,870
    Signal offers law enforcement positions with a focus on safety and security. Officers work in urban areas, providing protection for businesses and events. Locations include major cities, ensuring a vibrant and active work environment.


  4. Virginia State University
    Average Salary: $64,786
    Virginia State University employs law enforcement officers to ensure campus safety. Officers patrol the university grounds, providing a secure environment for students and staff. The university is located in Ettrick, Virginia.


  5. Liberty Healthcare Corporation
    Average Salary: $63,410
    Liberty Healthcare Corporation offers law enforcement roles with a focus on healthcare facility security. Officers work in hospitals and care centers, ensuring safety for patients and staff. Locations include various states, providing diverse experiences.


  6. Allied Universal
    Average Salary: $62,167
    Allied Universal provides law enforcement officers with opportunities in diverse settings. Officers work in corporate environments, public events, and private properties. Locations span across multiple states, offering a dynamic work experience.


  7. State of South Carolina
    Average Salary: $55,502
    The State of South Carolina offers law enforcement careers with a focus on public safety. Officers work in various locations across the state, ensuring the law is upheld. Opportunities include major cities and rural areas.


  8. State of Florida
    Average Salary: $54,929
    The State of Florida provides law enforcement roles with a focus on community safety. Officers work in diverse environments, including urban and rural areas. Locations span across the state, offering varied experiences.


  9. State of Mississippi
    Average Salary: $48,152
    The State of Mississippi offers law enforcement positions with a focus on public safety. Officers work in various locations across the state, ensuring the law is upheld. Opportunities include major cities and smaller towns.


  10. Virginia Community College System
    Average Salary: $47,476
    The Virginia Community College System employs law enforcement officers to ensure campus safety. Officers patrol the college grounds, providing a secure environment for students and staff. Locations include multiple campuses across Virginia.

How to earn more as a Law Enforcement Officer?

Law enforcement officers can find several ways to increase their earnings. By focusing on specific areas, officers can enhance their skills and potentially earn more. This can lead to better job opportunities and higher salaries. Here are some key factors to consider:

  1. Education and Training: Officers who pursue higher education can often earn more. Degrees in criminal justice or related fields can open doors to higher-paying positions. Specialized training in areas like cyber-crime or SWAT can also lead to higher salaries.
  2. Experience: Gaining experience is crucial. Officers who work in high-demand areas or take on leadership roles often see higher pay. Experience can lead to promotions, which usually come with higher pay.
  3. Certifications: Obtaining certifications in areas like emergency medical services can make an officer more valuable. These certifications can lead to higher-paying positions or overtime opportunities.
  4. Location: Pay scales can vary greatly by location. Officers in larger cities or areas with higher living costs often earn more. Considering relocation for better pay can be a smart move.
  5. Overtime and Shifts: Working overtime or different shifts can increase earnings. Many departments offer higher pay for working nights, weekends, or holidays. Officers who take on these shifts can boost their income.

By focusing on these factors, law enforcement officers can work towards earning more. Education, experience, certifications, location, and overtime all play a role in increasing pay. Officers who invest in these areas can see significant benefits in their careers.

Currently 115 Law Enforcement Officer job openings, nationwide.

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

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