In Philadelphia, PA, Police Officers earn a median of $85,390 a year — about 12% above the U.S. median of $76,550. Among the 50 metros tracked here for this role, that ranks #23.
What that pay is worth in Philadelphia
Local prices run 103 on the BEA cost-of-living index (U.S. = 100), so a $86,110 salary buys less than it looks — about $83,966 in national-average buying power.
Can Police Officers afford a home in Philadelphia?
A typical Philadelphia home runs about $232,400 — 2.7 times the average Police Officer salary, very affordable against the classic 3x rule of thumb. Median rent near $1,323/mo takes roughly 18% of gross pay — within the 30% comfort line.
The Police Officer pay ladder in Philadelphia
Entry-level (10th percentile) Police Officers earn about $58,300; the top 10% reach $117,040 — a $58,740 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 Philadelphia
Philadelphia employs roughly 13,190 Police Officers. It’s a sizable local market to build a career in.
Compare Philadelphia with other cities
See the full Police Officer salary by city ranking to weigh Philadelphia 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 Philadelphia?
The average Police Officer in Philadelphia, PA earns about $86,110 per year, 12.5% above the national average of $76,550.
What is the take-home pay for Police Officers in Philadelphia after taxes?
After federal and PA taxes, this $86,110 salary is worth about $66,764 a year - roughly $5,563 a month in take-home pay, an effective tax rate near 22%.
What do the highest-paid Police Officers earn in Philadelphia?
The top 10% of Police Officers in Philadelphia earn about $117,040 a year, versus about $58,300 for the bottom 10%.
Can Police Officers afford a home in Philadelphia?
A typical Philadelphia home runs about $232,400 - roughly 2.7x this salary, within reach by the classic 3x rule of thumb.