In Washington, DC, Police Officers earn a median of $77,160 a year — about 1% above the U.S. median of $76,550. Among the 50 metros tracked here for this role, that ranks #30.
What that pay is worth in Washington
Local prices run 109 on the BEA cost-of-living index (U.S. = 100), so a $80,190 salary buys less than it looks — about $73,647 in national-average buying power.
Can Police Officers afford a home in Washington?
A typical Washington home runs about $724,600 — 9.0 times the average Police Officer salary, a stretch against the classic 3x rule of thumb. Median rent near $1,900/mo takes roughly 28% of gross pay — within the 30% comfort line.
The Police Officer pay ladder in Washington
Entry-level (10th percentile) Police Officers earn about $60,200; the top 10% reach $104,050 — a $43,850 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 Washington
Washington employs roughly 14,470 Police Officers. Metro unemployment sits near 4.3%, a fairly balanced hiring market.
Compare Washington with other cities
See the full Police Officer salary by city ranking to weigh Washington 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 Washington?
The average Police Officer in Washington, DC earns about $80,190 per year, 4.8% above the national average of $76,550.
What is the take-home pay for Police Officers in Washington after taxes?
After federal and DC taxes, this $80,190 salary is worth about $61,396 a year - roughly $5,116 a month in take-home pay, an effective tax rate near 23%.
What do the highest-paid Police Officers earn in Washington?
The top 10% of Police Officers in Washington earn about $104,050 a year, versus about $60,200 for the bottom 10%.
Can Police Officers afford a home in Washington?
A typical Washington home runs about $724,600 - roughly 9.0x this salary, a stretch by the 3x rule, so budgeting discipline matters.