California pays the highest for police officers. In 2022, police and sheriff's patrol officers in California earned the highest median salaries nationwide.
Top-Paying States for Police Officers
According to data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), California led the nation in police officer compensation in 2022. Police and sheriff's patrol officers in California earned a median annual salary of $104,160.
This high earning potential in California reflects various factors, including the cost of living, local government budgets, and demand for law enforcement services within the state.
Following California, several other states also offer competitive salaries for police officers. Here's a look at the top-paying states based on median annual salaries in 2022:
| State | Median Annual Salary (2022) |
|---|---|
| California | $104,160 |
| Washington | $94,107 |
| New Jersey | $88,100 |
| Illinois | $86,130 |
| Hawaii | $86,080 |
These figures highlight the states where police officers can expect to earn the most, providing valuable insights for those considering a career in law enforcement or looking to relocate. Factors such as experience, specific agency (city vs. state police), and regional cost of living can also influence actual earnings within these states.
