How much does a Public Safety Officer make?
Public Safety Officers play a crucial role in keeping communities safe. They earn a respectable salary, with the average yearly income standing at $44,538. This figure can vary based on experience, location, and specific duties. Many officers start their careers with a salary around $30,000, while those with more experience can earn upwards of $80,000 annually.
The salary distribution shows a clear progression. For instance, the lowest 10% of earners make about $30,000, while the top 10% earn over $80,000. This range highlights the potential for growth and advancement in the field. Positions in larger cities or specialized roles often come with higher pay. Public Safety Officers can expect to see their earnings increase as they gain experience and take on more responsibilities.
What are the highest paying cities for a Public Safety Officer?

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Pueblo, CO
Average Salary: $81,517
In Pueblo, Colorado, you can find rewarding work as a Public Safety Officer. The city offers a strong sense of community and safety. With Pueblo County Sheriff's Office and local law enforcement agencies, you will have ample opportunities to make a difference.
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Green Bay, WI
Average Salary: $63,236
Green Bay, Wisconsin, provides a vibrant environment for Public Safety Officers. The city's commitment to safety makes it an ideal place to work. The Green Bay Police Department and local agencies offer diverse roles and career development.
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Salem, OR
Average Salary: $63,094
Salem, Oregon, is a great place for Public Safety Officers. The city values public safety and community engagement. Working with the Salem Police Department and other local agencies, you will contribute to a safer community.
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San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $54,994
In San Francisco, California, you can expect a dynamic role as a Public Safety Officer. The city's diverse population and vibrant culture offer unique challenges. The San Francisco Police Department provides a range of opportunities for growth and development.
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Savannah, GA
Average Salary: $54,332
Savannah, Georgia, offers a historic setting for Public Safety Officers. The city's rich culture and community spirit make it a rewarding place to work. The Savannah Police Department and local agencies provide a supportive environment for career advancement.
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Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $52,562
Seattle, Washington, provides a modern and progressive environment for Public Safety Officers. The city's commitment to safety and innovation offers exciting opportunities. The Seattle Police Department and local agencies support professional growth.
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Phoenix, AZ
Average Salary: $51,512
In Phoenix, Arizona, you can find a fast-paced environment for Public Safety Officers. The city's growth and diversity offer unique challenges. The Phoenix Police Department and local agencies provide a range of opportunities for career development.
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Buffalo, NY
Average Salary: $51,186
Buffalo, New York, offers a strong community focus for Public Safety Officers. The city's commitment to safety and resilience makes it a rewarding place to work. The Buffalo Police Department and local agencies support professional growth and development.
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Indianapolis, IN
Average Salary: $50,451
Indianapolis, Indiana, provides a dynamic environment for Public Safety Officers. The city's growth and community spirit offer exciting opportunities. The Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department and local agencies support career advancement.
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Grand Rapids, MI
Average Salary: $50,307
Grand Rapids, Michigan, offers a supportive environment for Public Safety Officers. The city's commitment to safety and community makes it a rewarding place to work. The Grand Rapids Police Department and local agencies provide a range of opportunities for professional growth.
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What are the best companies a Public Safety Officer can work for?

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California Highway Patrol
Average Salary: $143,600
The California Highway Patrol offers rewarding Public Safety Officer jobs. They protect the state's highways and ensure public safety. They operate across California, with major offices in Sacramento and Los Angeles.
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City of Pueblo
Average Salary: $84,589
The City of Pueblo provides Public Safety Officer positions with a strong focus on community safety. Officers work in Pueblo, Colorado, ensuring the safety and security of the city's residents.
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Arizona Department Of Public Safety
Average Salary: $74,246
The Arizona Department of Public Safety offers Public Safety Officer jobs with a focus on state-wide safety. Officers work across Arizona, with headquarters in Phoenix, ensuring the safety of the state's citizens.
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City of Aurora, CO
Average Salary: $70,758
The City of Aurora, CO, provides Public Safety Officer positions with a focus on local safety. Officers work in Aurora, Colorado, ensuring the safety and security of the city's residents.
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Town of Pecos City
Average Salary: $65,045
The Town of Pecos City offers Public Safety Officer jobs with a focus on community safety. Officers work in Pecos, New Mexico, ensuring the safety and security of the town's residents.
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State of Connecticut
Average Salary: $56,886
The State of Connecticut provides Public Safety Officer positions with a focus on state-wide safety. Officers work across Connecticut, with major offices in Hartford, ensuring the safety of the state's citizens.
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State of Georgia
Average Salary: $54,647
The State of Georgia offers Public Safety Officer jobs with a focus on state-wide safety. Officers work across Georgia, with major offices in Atlanta, ensuring the safety of the state's citizens.
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Advocate Aurora Health
Average Salary: $53,317
Advocate Aurora Health provides Public Safety Officer positions with a focus on healthcare safety. Officers work in various locations across Illinois and Wisconsin, ensuring the safety of patients and staff.
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Gates Security
Average Salary: $53,083
Gates Security offers Public Safety Officer jobs with a focus on private sector safety. Officers work in various locations across the United States, providing security services for businesses and events.
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MLK Community Healthcare
Average Salary: $51,844
MLK Community Healthcare provides Public Safety Officer positions with a focus on healthcare safety. Officers work in various locations across California, ensuring the safety of patients and staff.
How to earn more as a Public Safety Officer?
Public safety officers play a crucial role in maintaining order and protecting communities. To earn more in this field, consider these key factors. Gaining experience and advancing in rank can lead to higher pay. Officers often receive pay raises with each promotion. Continuing education and specialized training can also increase earning potential. Certifications in areas like emergency medical services or hazardous materials handling can make an officer more valuable.
Location and cost of living also affect salary. Officers in urban areas or regions with a high cost of living may earn more. Working overtime or in shift differentials can boost earnings. Some departments offer higher pay for working nights, weekends, or holidays. Finally, negotiating salary and benefits during hiring can lead to better pay. Researching the average salary for the position and location helps in making a strong case.
Consider these factors to increase earning potential as a public safety officer. Each step can lead to better pay and job satisfaction.
- Advance in rank and gain experience.
- Pursue continuing education and specialized training.
- Work in high-cost-of-living areas or urban regions.
- Take advantage of overtime and shift differentials.
- Negotiate salary and benefits during hiring.



