In Denver, CO, Police Officers earn a median of $100,790 a year — about 32% above the U.S. median of $76,550. Among the 50 metros tracked here for this role, that ranks #11.
What that pay is worth in Denver
Local prices run 106 on the BEA cost-of-living index (U.S. = 100), so a $93,090 salary buys less than it looks — about $88,002 in national-average buying power.
Can Police Officers afford a home in Denver?
A typical Denver home runs about $586,700 — 6.3 times the average Police Officer salary, a stretch against the classic 3x rule of thumb. Median rent near $1,770/mo takes roughly 23% of gross pay — within the 30% comfort line.
The Police Officer pay ladder in Denver
Entry-level (10th percentile) Police Officers earn about $69,490; the top 10% reach $105,840 — a $36,350 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 Denver
Denver employs roughly 5,170 Police Officers. It’s a sizable local market to build a career in.
Compare Denver with other cities
See the full Police Officer salary by city ranking to weigh Denver 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 Denver?
The average Police Officer in Denver, CO earns about $93,090 per year, 21.6% above the national average of $76,550.
What is the take-home pay for Police Officers in Denver after taxes?
After federal and CO taxes, this $93,090 salary is worth about $70,931 a year - roughly $5,910 a month in take-home pay, an effective tax rate near 24%.
What do the highest-paid Police Officers earn in Denver?
The top 10% of Police Officers in Denver earn about $105,840 a year, versus about $69,490 for the bottom 10%.
Can Police Officers afford a home in Denver?
A typical Denver home runs about $586,700 - roughly 6.3x this salary, a stretch by the 3x rule, so budgeting discipline matters.