Police officer salary in California
A police officer in California earns an estimated $86,500 a year (about $41.59/hour) — roughly 17% above the US median. Here's how it breaks down, and how long it takes to get there.
| Estimated California median | $86,500 |
| Entry level | $52,500 |
| Experienced | $128,500+ |
| US median (for comparison) | $74,000 |
Estimate: national median adjusted for California's wage level (+17%). Not a survey figure for California specifically — see official state BLS OEWS data or local listings for exact pay.
Police officer pay in California — FAQ
How much does a police officer make in California?
A police officer in California earns an estimated $86,500 a year (about $41.59/hour), roughly 17% above the US median. Most fall between roughly $52,500 and $128,500 depending on experience, employer and city. This is an estimate adjusted from the national median — check local listings for exact pay.
How long does it take to become a police officer in California?
About the same as anywhere in the US — about 1 year (Academy training (HS diploma minimum)). Licensing details can vary by state, so confirm California's specific requirements with its licensing board.
Police officer salary in other states
General information only — not career, legal or financial advice. State salary figures are estimates adjusted from national medians and will differ from exact local survey data.