In Los Angeles, CA, Police Officers earn a median of $113,460 a year — about 48% above the U.S. median of $76,550. Among the 50 metros tracked here for this role, that ranks #5.
What that pay is worth in Los Angeles
Local prices run 114 on the BEA cost-of-living index (U.S. = 100), so a $112,130 salary buys less than it looks — about $98,736 in national-average buying power.
Can Police Officers afford a home in Los Angeles?
A typical Los Angeles home runs about $879,500 — 7.8 times the average Police Officer salary, a stretch against the classic 3x rule of thumb. Median rent near $1,879/mo takes roughly 20% of gross pay — within the 30% comfort line.
The Police Officer pay ladder in Los Angeles
Entry-level (10th percentile) Police Officers earn about $79,000; the top 10% reach $134,870 — a $55,870 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 Los Angeles
Los Angeles employs roughly 23,980 Police Officers. It’s a sizable local market to build a career in.
Compare Los Angeles with other cities
See the full Police Officer salary by city ranking to weigh Los Angeles 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 Los Angeles?
The average Police Officer in Los Angeles, CA earns about $112,130 per year, 46.5% above the national average of $76,550.
What is the take-home pay for Police Officers in Los Angeles after taxes?
After federal and CA taxes, this $112,130 salary is worth about $81,361 a year - roughly $6,780 a month in take-home pay, an effective tax rate near 27%.
What do the highest-paid Police Officers earn in Los Angeles?
The top 10% of Police Officers in Los Angeles earn about $134,870 a year, versus about $79,000 for the bottom 10%.
Can Police Officers afford a home in Los Angeles?
A typical Los Angeles home runs about $879,500 - roughly 7.8x this salary, a stretch by the 3x rule, so budgeting discipline matters.