Police Officers

According to the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL), police and sheriff's patrol officers earned a median annual salary of $72,280 in May 2023. The lowest 10 percent earned $45,200 or less a year, while the highest 10 percent earned $111,700 or more annually. Half of police and sheriff's patrol officers earned between $54,770 and $92,410.

Police detectives and criminal investigators earned median salaries of $91,100 a year, with a low of $50,670 or less and a high of $154,360 or more in 2023, according to the DOL. Salaries for police officers range widely based on geographic location. Police departments in the West and Northeast generally pay detectives and criminal investigators more than departments in other regions.

Most police officers receive periodic and annual salary increases up to a limit set for their rank and length of service. Police departments generally pay special compensation to cover the cost of uniforms. They usually provide any equipment required such as firearms and handcuffs. Overtime pay may be given for certain work shifts or emergency duty. In these instances, officers are usually paid straight or time-and-a-half pay, while extra time off is sometimes given as compensation.

Because most police officers are civil service employees, they receive generous benefits, including health insurance and paid vacation and sick leave, and enjoy increased job security. In addition, most police departments offer retirement plans and retirement after 20 or 25 years of service, usually at half pay.