What is a good salary for a Police Officer?

In 2026, a good Police Officer salary is around $75K (the national median). $86K+ is great (top 25%), and $97K+ is top-tier (top 10%). Earning below $66K is under market — worth a negotiation.

Below market< $66K

Under the 25th percentile — grounds to negotiate.

Decent$66K–$75K

Solid for early-career or lower-cost areas.

Good$75K–$86K

At/above the median — a genuinely good salary.

Great / top$86K+

Top quartile; $97K+ is top 10%.

It depends on where and how senior you are

Is it good in your city? →Police Officer pay by experience →Am I underpaid? →

Common questions

What is a good salary for a Police Officer in 2026?

A good Police Officer salary is around $75K (the national median). $86K+ is great (top 25%) and $97K+ is top-tier (top 10%). Anything below $66K is under market for the role.

What is a high salary for a Police Officer?

$86K puts you in the top quartile; $97K or more is top-10% pay for a Police Officer. Reaching it usually means senior level, in-demand skills, or a high-cost metro.

Does a good Police Officer salary depend on location?

Yes — the same number goes much further in a low-cost city. Use the cost-of-living check to see what a salary is really worth where you live.

Percentiles from BLS-anchored national data; a good salary also depends on cost of living and your level.