In Albuquerque, NM, Police Officers earn a median of $68,210 a year — about 11% below the U.S. median of $76,550. Among the 50 metros tracked here for this role, that ranks #37.
What that pay is worth in Albuquerque
Local prices run 96 on the BEA cost-of-living index (U.S. = 100), so a $64,070 salary stretches further than the sticker number — about $67,057 in national-average buying power.
Can Police Officers afford a home in Albuquerque?
A typical Albuquerque home runs about $266,700 — 4.2 times the average Police Officer salary, manageable against the classic 3x rule of thumb. Median rent near $1,085/mo takes roughly 20% of gross pay — within the 30% comfort line.
The Police Officer pay ladder in Albuquerque
Entry-level (10th percentile) Police Officers earn about $49,250; the top 10% reach $68,720 — a $19,470 spread, narrow for this field. Most of that gap comes down to experience, employer, and how hard you negotiate.
The Police Officer job market in Albuquerque
Albuquerque employs roughly 1,750 Police Officers. It’s a sizable local market to build a career in.
Compare Albuquerque with other cities
See the full Police Officer salary by city ranking to weigh Albuquerque against the other metros on both pay and cost-adjusted value, or use the cost-of-living calculator to compare any two cities directly.
Frequently asked questions
How much do Police Officers make in Albuquerque?
The average Police Officer in Albuquerque, NM earns about $64,070 per year, 16.3% below the national average of $76,550.
What is the take-home pay for Police Officers in Albuquerque after taxes?
After federal and NM taxes, this $64,070 salary is worth about $51,814 a year - roughly $4,317 a month in take-home pay, an effective tax rate near 19%.
What do the highest-paid Police Officers earn in Albuquerque?
The top 10% of Police Officers in Albuquerque earn about $68,720 a year, versus about $49,250 for the bottom 10%.
Can Police Officers afford a home in Albuquerque?
A typical Albuquerque home runs about $266,700 - roughly 4.2x this salary, within reach by the classic 3x rule of thumb.