In Raleigh, NC, Police Officers earn a median of $60,570 a year — about 21% below the U.S. median of $76,550. Among the 50 metros tracked here for this role, that ranks #44.
What that pay is worth in Raleigh
Local prices run 98 on the BEA cost-of-living index (U.S. = 100), so a $62,670 salary is about break-even with the national average ($63,847 adjusted).
Can Police Officers afford a home in Raleigh?
A typical Raleigh home runs about $377,800 — 6.0 times the average Police Officer salary, a stretch against the classic 3x rule of thumb. Median rent near $1,468/mo takes roughly 28% of gross pay — within the 30% comfort line.
The Police Officer pay ladder in Raleigh
Entry-level (10th percentile) Police Officers earn about $46,730; the top 10% reach $85,770 — a $39,040 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 Raleigh
Raleigh employs roughly 2,090 Police Officers. It’s a sizable local market to build a career in.
Compare Raleigh with other cities
See the full Police Officer salary by city ranking to weigh Raleigh 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 Raleigh?
The average Police Officer in Raleigh, NC earns about $62,670 per year, 18.1% below the national average of $76,550.
What is the take-home pay for Police Officers in Raleigh after taxes?
After federal and NC taxes, this $62,670 salary is worth about $50,543 a year - roughly $4,211 a month in take-home pay, an effective tax rate near 19%.
What do the highest-paid Police Officers earn in Raleigh?
The top 10% of Police Officers in Raleigh earn about $85,770 a year, versus about $46,730 for the bottom 10%.
Can Police Officers afford a home in Raleigh?
A typical Raleigh home runs about $377,800 - roughly 6.0x this salary, a stretch by the 3x rule, so budgeting discipline matters.