In Detroit, MI, Police Officers earn a median of $74,610 a year — about 3% below the U.S. median of $76,550. Among the 50 metros tracked here for this role, that ranks #32.
What that pay is worth in Detroit
Local prices run 100 on the BEA cost-of-living index (U.S. = 100), so a $71,250 salary is about break-even with the national average ($71,038 adjusted).
Can Police Officers afford a home in Detroit?
A typical Detroit home runs about $76,800 — 1.1 times the average Police Officer salary, very affordable against the classic 3x rule of thumb. Median rent near $1,034/mo takes roughly 17% of gross pay — within the 30% comfort line.
The Police Officer pay ladder in Detroit
Entry-level (10th percentile) Police Officers earn about $50,340; the top 10% reach $86,250 — a $35,910 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 Detroit
Detroit employs roughly 7,480 Police Officers. It’s a sizable local market to build a career in.
Compare Detroit with other cities
See the full Police Officer salary by city ranking to weigh Detroit 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 Detroit?
The average Police Officer in Detroit, MI earns about $71,250 per year, 6.9% below the national average of $76,550.
What is the take-home pay for Police Officers in Detroit after taxes?
After federal and MI taxes, this $71,250 salary is worth about $55,926 a year - roughly $4,660 a month in take-home pay, an effective tax rate near 22%.
What do the highest-paid Police Officers earn in Detroit?
The top 10% of Police Officers in Detroit earn about $86,250 a year, versus about $50,340 for the bottom 10%.
Can Police Officers afford a home in Detroit?
A typical Detroit home runs about $76,800 - roughly 1.1x this salary, within reach by the classic 3x rule of thumb.