In Baltimore, MD, Police Officers earn a median of $75,330 a year — about 2% below the U.S. median of $76,550. Among the 50 metros tracked here for this role, that ranks #31.
What that pay is worth in Baltimore
Local prices run 104 on the BEA cost-of-living index (U.S. = 100), so a $76,390 salary buys less than it looks — about $73,110 in national-average buying power.
Can Police Officers afford a home in Baltimore?
A typical Baltimore home runs about $219,300 — 2.9 times the average Police Officer salary, very affordable against the classic 3x rule of thumb. Median rent near $1,290/mo takes roughly 20% of gross pay — within the 30% comfort line.
The Police Officer pay ladder in Baltimore
Entry-level (10th percentile) Police Officers earn about $54,340; the top 10% reach $101,100 — a $46,760 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 Baltimore
Baltimore employs roughly 4,540 Police Officers. It’s a sizable local market to build a career in.
Compare Baltimore with other cities
See the full Police Officer salary by city ranking to weigh Baltimore 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 Baltimore?
The average Police Officer in Baltimore, MD earns about $76,390 per year, 0.2% below the national average of $76,550.
What is the take-home pay for Police Officers in Baltimore after taxes?
After federal and MD taxes, this $76,390 salary is worth about $59,153 a year - roughly $4,929 a month in take-home pay, an effective tax rate near 23%.
What do the highest-paid Police Officers earn in Baltimore?
The top 10% of Police Officers in Baltimore earn about $101,100 a year, versus about $54,340 for the bottom 10%.
Can Police Officers afford a home in Baltimore?
A typical Baltimore home runs about $219,300 - roughly 2.9x this salary, within reach by the classic 3x rule of thumb.