In Boston, MA, Police Officers earn a median of $88,986 a year - about 33% above the U.S. median of $67,000. Among the 50 metros tracked here for this role, that ranks #17.
What that pay is worth in Boston
Local prices run 108 on the BEA cost-of-living index (U.S. = 100), so a $88,986 salary buys less than it looks - about $82,192 in national-average buying power.
Can Police Officers afford a home in Boston?
A typical Boston home runs about $710,400 - 8.0 times the average Police Officer salary, a stretch against the classic 3x rule of thumb. Median rent near $2,093/mo takes roughly 28% of gross pay - within the 30% comfort line.
The Police Officer pay ladder in Boston
Entry-level (10th percentile) Police Officers earn about $49,401; the top 10% reach $116,694 - a $67,293 spread, wide for this field. Most of that gap comes down to experience, employer, and how hard you negotiate.
Compare Boston with other cities
See the full Police Officer salary by city ranking to weigh Boston 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 Boston?
The average Police Officer in Boston, MA earns about $88,986 per year, 32.8% above the national average of $67,000.
What is the take-home pay for Police Officers in Boston after taxes?
After federal and MA taxes, this $88,986 salary is worth about $66,982 a year - roughly $5,581 a month in take-home pay, an effective tax rate near 25%.
What do the highest-paid Police Officers earn in Boston?
The top 10% of Police Officers in Boston earn about $116,694 a year, versus about $49,401 for the bottom 10%.
Can Police Officers afford a home in Boston?
A typical Boston home runs about $710,400 - roughly 8.0x this salary, a stretch by the 3x rule, so budgeting discipline matters.