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Public Safety · Arkansas

How to Become a Correctional Officers and Jailers in Arkansas

Correctional Officers and Jailers in Arkansas earn a median salary of $40,330/year, which is 30% below the national average. Arkansas has a state income tax of ~3.5%. After taxes and rent, a correctional officers and jailers takes home approximately $1,341/month. Most positions require High school diploma or equivalent.

$40K
Median salary in Arkansas
-30%
vs. national average
3.5%
State income tax
4,250
Employed in Arkansas

What a correctional officers and jailers can afford in Arkansas

Gross annual salary$40,330
Est. monthly take-home (after fed + 3.5% state tax)$2,753/mo
Median 2BR rent (Arkansas)-$1,412/mo
Rent as % of take-home51.3% (above 30% guideline)
Cost-of-living adjusted salary$40,330/yr (RPP: 100)
Monthly remaining after rent$1,341/mo

Becoming a correctional officers and jailers in Arkansas

1

Meet education requirements

Correctional Officers and Jailers positions in Arkansas typically require High school diploma or equivalent. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Arkansas. Research accredited programs in your area.

2

Gain required experience

Many correctional officers and jailers positions in Arkansas require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.

3

Obtain Arkansas licensure or certification

Arkansas may require specific licensing or professional certification for correctional officers and jailerss. Requirements vary by state — contact the Arkansas Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.

4

Find positions in Arkansas

Arkansas employs 4,250 correctional officers and jailers. The highest concentrations are in Little Rock-North Little Rock-Conway and Jonesboro.

Correctional Officers and Jailers salary by metro area in Arkansas

Metro areaMedianHourlyEmployment
Little Rock-North Little Rock-Conway$47K$22.53/hr680
Jonesboro$47K$22.51/hr160
Fayetteville-Springdale-Rogers$46K$21.94/hr370
Fort Smith$34K$16.44/hr130

Correctional Officers and Jailers salary range in Arkansas

10th percentile (entry)
$31K
25th percentile
$36K
Median (50th)
$40K
75th percentile
$46K
90th percentile (senior)
$50K
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Full correctional officers and jailers salary breakdown in Arkansas
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Correctional Officers and Jailers careers in other states

Frequently asked questions

How much does a correctional officers and jailers make in Arkansas?

The median correctional officers and jailers salary in Arkansas is $40,330 per year ($19.39/hr). This is 30% below the national median of $57,970. Salaries range from $30,790 to $49,940.

What are the requirements to become a correctional officers and jailers in Arkansas?

Correctional Officers and Jailers positions in Arkansas typically require High school diploma or equivalent. Arkansas may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the Arkansas licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.

Can a correctional officers and jailers afford to live in Arkansas?

At the median salary of $40,330, a correctional officers and jailers in Arkansas would take home approximately $2,753/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 51.3% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.

What are the best cities for correctional officers and jailers in Arkansas?

The highest paying metro areas for correctional officers and jailers in Arkansas are Little Rock-North Little Rock-Conway ($46,860), Jonesboro ($46,820), Fayetteville-Springdale-Rogers ($45,640). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.

Does Arkansas have state income tax for correctional officers and jailers?

Yes, Arkansas has a state income tax rate of approximately 3.5%. On a $40,330 salary, this means roughly $1,405/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.