How much does a Police Officer make?
Police officers play a vital role in keeping communities safe. They earn a good salary for their important work. The average yearly salary for a police officer is around $77,707. This means that most officers can expect to make close to this amount each year.
The salary for police officers can vary based on experience and location. Officers with more experience often earn more. Those in larger cities or areas with a higher cost of living may also see higher salaries. The lowest-paid 10% of officers make around $40,000 a year. The top 10% earn over $110,000 annually. This range shows that there are opportunities for growth and higher earnings as officers gain experience and advance in their careers.
What are the highest paying cities for a Police Officer?

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Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $103,365
In Seattle, law enforcement officers work to maintain peace in a bustling city. Seattle Police Department offers a variety of programs and training. Officers here value community engagement and public safety.
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San Jose, CA
Average Salary: $100,436
San Jose offers a dynamic environment for those in law enforcement. Working here means being part of a diverse community. The San Jose Police Department focuses on modern policing and community relations.
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San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $99,020
San Francisco provides a unique setting for law enforcement. Officers here navigate a vibrant city with many cultural events. The San Francisco Police Department emphasizes public safety and community trust.
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Sacramento, CA
Average Salary: $95,611
Sacramento offers a chance to serve a diverse population. Officers work closely with state government agencies. The Sacramento Police Department values teamwork and community involvement.
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Vallejo, CA
Average Salary: $95,076
Vallejo provides a smaller city feel with a strong sense of community. Officers here focus on neighborhood policing. The Vallejo Police Department offers opportunities for professional growth and community service.
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Washington, DC
Average Salary: $94,475
In Washington, DC, law enforcement officers play a key role in national security. Working here means being part of a historic and political environment. The Metropolitan Police Department offers extensive training and development.
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Bend, OR
Average Salary: $93,534
Bend offers a peaceful setting with a strong community spirit. Officers here enjoy a mix of urban and natural environments. The Bend Police Department focuses on community policing and public safety.
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Fort Collins, CO
Average Salary: $90,209
Fort Collins provides a welcoming community for law enforcement. Officers here enjoy a mix of urban and outdoor activities. The Fort Collins Police Department emphasizes community engagement and public service.
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Portland, OR
Average Salary: $89,910
Portland offers a vibrant and progressive environment for officers. Working here means being part of a diverse and active community. The Portland Police Bureau focuses on community policing and public safety.
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Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $89,371
Los Angeles provides a dynamic and diverse setting for law enforcement. Officers here work in one of the largest cities in the U.S. The Los Angeles Police Department offers extensive training and career opportunities.
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What are the best companies a Police Officer can work for?

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Command International Security Services
Average Salary: $137,667
Command International Security Services offers rewarding Police Officer jobs with competitive salaries. They provide security services in various locations, including major cities and private facilities. Their roles focus on ensuring safety and maintaining order.
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Inter-Con Security Systems
Average Salary: $106,139
Inter-Con Security Systems provides Police Officer jobs with a strong emphasis on safety and professionalism. They operate in multiple states and offer diverse opportunities. Their officers work in various settings, from corporate offices to public events.
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CITY OF SANTA BARBARA
Average Salary: $105,679
The City of Santa Barbara offers Police Officer jobs with a focus on community service. They operate within the city limits, providing essential law enforcement services. Officers work to maintain peace and ensure the safety of residents.
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City of Buena Park
Average Salary: $105,406
The City of Buena Park provides Police Officer jobs with a commitment to public safety. They serve the city and its residents, offering roles that focus on law enforcement and community engagement. Officers work in various neighborhoods to ensure a safe environment.
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Amtrak
Average Salary: $104,281
Amtrak offers Police Officer jobs with a focus on transportation security. They operate across the United States, providing safety and security for passengers and staff. Officers work on trains and in stations to ensure a secure travel experience.
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United States Capitol Police
Average Salary: $104,159
The United States Capitol Police provides Police Officer jobs with a focus on protecting the nation's lawmakers and visitors. They operate in Washington, D.C., offering roles that require a high level of vigilance and professionalism. Officers work to maintain security in a critical location.
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CITY OF SANTA MONICA
Average Salary: $103,557
The City of Santa Monica offers Police Officer jobs with a commitment to community safety. They operate within the city, providing essential law enforcement services. Officers work in various neighborhoods to ensure a peaceful and secure environment.
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City of Los Angeles
Average Salary: $101,949
The City of Los Angeles provides Police Officer jobs with a focus on serving a diverse population. They operate across the city, offering roles that require a strong commitment to public safety. Officers work in various districts to maintain order and protect residents.
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City of Lynnwood
Average Salary: $101,906
The City of Lynnwood offers Police Officer jobs with a focus on community policing. They serve the city and its residents, providing essential law enforcement services. Officers work in various neighborhoods to ensure a safe and secure environment.
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LeoForce
Average Salary: $99,976
LeoForce provides Police Officer jobs with a focus on security and safety. They operate in various locations, offering roles that require a high level of vigilance and professionalism. Officers work in diverse settings to ensure the safety of people and property.
How to earn more as a Police Officer?
Becoming a Police Officer offers a rewarding career with opportunities for growth and increased earnings. To maximize your potential, consider these key factors that can lead to higher pay and better benefits.
First, gaining experience and seniority plays a crucial role. As you work more years, you can expect to move up the pay scale. Promotions often come with higher pay and more responsibilities. Second, obtaining additional certifications can enhance your skills and value. Certifications in areas like crisis intervention or tactical operations can make you more marketable. Third, pursuing higher education can open doors to administrative roles. Degrees in criminal justice or public administration can lead to positions with higher pay. Fourth, transferring to a department with a higher cost of living can increase your salary. Cities with higher living expenses often offer better pay. Lastly, taking on extra duties, such as training new officers or working overtime, can boost your income. These opportunities often come with additional pay.
By focusing on these factors, Police Officers can work towards earning more and advancing their careers.
- Gain experience and seniority
- Obtain additional certifications
- Pursue higher education
- Transfer to a department with a higher cost of living
- Take on extra duties and overtime