In Austin, TX, Police Officers earn a median of $84,210 a year — about 10% above the U.S. median of $76,550. Among the 50 metros tracked here for this role, that ranks #26.
What that pay is worth in Austin
Local prices run 98 on the BEA cost-of-living index (U.S. = 100), so a $82,060 salary is about break-even with the national average ($83,678 adjusted).
Can Police Officers afford a home in Austin?
A typical Austin home runs about $512,700 — 6.2 times the average Police Officer salary, a stretch against the classic 3x rule of thumb. Median rent near $1,655/mo takes roughly 24% of gross pay — within the 30% comfort line.
The Police Officer pay ladder in Austin
Entry-level (10th percentile) Police Officers earn about $60,580; the top 10% reach $104,890 — a $44,310 spread, moderate for this field. Most of that gap comes down to experience, employer, and how hard you negotiate.
The Police Officer job market in Austin
Austin employs roughly 4,130 Police Officers. It’s a sizable local market to build a career in.
Compare Austin with other cities
See the full Police Officer salary by city ranking to weigh Austin 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 Austin?
The average Police Officer in Austin, TX earns about $82,060 per year, 7.2% above the national average of $76,550.
What is the take-home pay for Police Officers in Austin after taxes?
After federal and TX taxes, this $82,060 salary is worth about $66,559 a year - roughly $5,546 a month in take-home pay, an effective tax rate near 19%.
What do the highest-paid Police Officers earn in Austin?
The top 10% of Police Officers in Austin earn about $104,890 a year, versus about $60,580 for the bottom 10%.
Can Police Officers afford a home in Austin?
A typical Austin home runs about $512,700 - roughly 6.2x this salary, a stretch by the 3x rule, so budgeting discipline matters.