In Seattle, WA, Police Officers earn a median of $109,180 a year — about 43% above the U.S. median of $76,550. Among the 50 metros tracked here for this role, that ranks #8.
What that pay is worth in Seattle
Local prices run 111 on the BEA cost-of-living index (U.S. = 100), so a $109,510 salary buys less than it looks — about $98,540 in national-average buying power.
Can Police Officers afford a home in Seattle?
A typical Seattle home runs about $912,100 — 8.3 times the average Police Officer salary, a stretch against the classic 3x rule of thumb. Median rent near $1,998/mo takes roughly 22% of gross pay — within the 30% comfort line.
The Police Officer pay ladder in Seattle
Entry-level (10th percentile) Police Officers earn about $84,310; the top 10% reach $138,340 — a $54,030 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 Seattle
Seattle employs roughly 4,440 Police Officers. It’s a sizable local market to build a career in.
Compare Seattle with other cities
See the full Police Officer salary by city ranking to weigh Seattle 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 Seattle?
The average Police Officer in Seattle, WA earns about $109,510 per year, 43.1% above the national average of $76,550.
What is the take-home pay for Police Officers in Seattle after taxes?
After federal and WA taxes, this $109,510 salary is worth about $85,870 a year - roughly $7,155 a month in take-home pay, an effective tax rate near 22%.
What do the highest-paid Police Officers earn in Seattle?
The top 10% of Police Officers in Seattle earn about $138,340 a year, versus about $84,310 for the bottom 10%.
Can Police Officers afford a home in Seattle?
A typical Seattle home runs about $912,100 - roughly 8.3x this salary, a stretch by the 3x rule, so budgeting discipline matters.