In Milwaukee, WI, Police Officers earn a median of $87,830 a year — about 15% above the U.S. median of $76,550. Among the 50 metros tracked here for this role, that ranks #18.
What that pay is worth in Milwaukee
Local prices run 97 on the BEA cost-of-living index (U.S. = 100), so a $81,100 salary stretches further than the sticker number — about $83,663 in national-average buying power.
Can Police Officers afford a home in Milwaukee?
A typical Milwaukee home runs about $172,000 — 2.1 times the average Police Officer salary, very affordable against the classic 3x rule of thumb. Median rent near $1,033/mo takes roughly 15% of gross pay — within the 30% comfort line.
The Police Officer pay ladder in Milwaukee
Entry-level (10th percentile) Police Officers earn about $57,950; the top 10% reach $93,830 — a $35,880 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 Milwaukee
Milwaukee employs roughly 3,560 Police Officers. It’s a sizable local market to build a career in.
Compare Milwaukee with other cities
See the full Police Officer salary by city ranking to weigh Milwaukee 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 Milwaukee?
The average Police Officer in Milwaukee, WI earns about $81,100 per year, 5.9% above the national average of $76,550.
What is the take-home pay for Police Officers in Milwaukee after taxes?
After federal and WI taxes, this $81,100 salary is worth about $62,928 a year - roughly $5,244 a month in take-home pay, an effective tax rate near 22%.
What do the highest-paid Police Officers earn in Milwaukee?
The top 10% of Police Officers in Milwaukee earn about $93,830 a year, versus about $57,950 for the bottom 10%.
Can Police Officers afford a home in Milwaukee?
A typical Milwaukee home runs about $172,000 - roughly 2.1x this salary, within reach by the classic 3x rule of thumb.