In Houston, TX, Police Officers earn a median of $69,080 a year — about 10% below the U.S. median of $76,550. Among the 50 metros tracked here for this role, that ranks #36.
What that pay is worth in Houston
Local prices run 99 on the BEA cost-of-living index (U.S. = 100), so a $74,330 salary is about break-even with the national average ($75,363 adjusted).
Can Police Officers afford a home in Houston?
A typical Houston home runs about $253,400 — 3.4 times the average Police Officer salary, manageable against the classic 3x rule of thumb. Median rent near $1,313/mo takes roughly 21% of gross pay — within the 30% comfort line.
The Police Officer pay ladder in Houston
Entry-level (10th percentile) Police Officers earn about $56,900; the top 10% reach $96,320 — a $39,420 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 Houston
Houston employs roughly 14,480 Police Officers. It’s a sizable local market to build a career in.
Compare Houston with other cities
See the full Police Officer salary by city ranking to weigh Houston 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 Houston?
The average Police Officer in Houston, TX earns about $74,330 per year, 2.9% below the national average of $76,550.
What is the take-home pay for Police Officers in Houston after taxes?
After federal and TX taxes, this $74,330 salary is worth about $61,121 a year - roughly $5,093 a month in take-home pay, an effective tax rate near 18%.
What do the highest-paid Police Officers earn in Houston?
The top 10% of Police Officers in Houston earn about $96,320 a year, versus about $56,900 for the bottom 10%.
Can Police Officers afford a home in Houston?
A typical Houston home runs about $253,400 - roughly 3.4x this salary, within reach by the classic 3x rule of thumb.