How to Become a Correctional Officers and Jailers in Florida
Correctional Officers and Jailers in Florida earn a median salary of $48,260/year, which is 17% below the national average. Florida has no state income tax. After taxes and rent, a correctional officers and jailers takes home approximately $1,989/month. Most positions require High school diploma or equivalent.
What a correctional officers and jailers can afford in Florida
Becoming a correctional officers and jailers in Florida
Meet education requirements
Correctional Officers and Jailers positions in Florida typically require High school diploma or equivalent. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Florida. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many correctional officers and jailers positions in Florida require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.
Obtain Florida licensure or certification
Florida may require specific licensing or professional certification for correctional officers and jailerss. Requirements vary by state — contact the Florida Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.
Find positions in Florida
Florida employs 22,390 correctional officers and jailers. The highest concentrations are in Naples-Marco Island and Wildwood-The Villages.
Correctional Officers and Jailers salary by metro area in Florida
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Naples-Marco Island | $78K | $37.43/hr | 300 |
| Wildwood-The Villages | $72K | $34.45/hr | 960 |
| Miami-Fort Lauderdale-West Palm Beach | $68K | $32.74/hr | 3,660 |
| North Port-Bradenton-Sarasota | $66K | $31.85/hr | 440 |
| Tampa-St. Petersburg-Clearwater | $65K | $31.39/hr | 2,090 |
| Jacksonville | $60K | $28.93/hr | 1,030 |
| Tallahassee | $48K | $23.2/hr | 1,290 |
| Gainesville | $48K | $23.2/hr | 510 |
| Port St. Lucie | $47K | $22.76/hr | 510 |
| Lakeland-Winter Haven | $47K | $22.72/hr | 730 |
| Deltona-Daytona Beach-Ormond Beach | $47K | $22.48/hr | 380 |
| Pensacola-Ferry Pass-Brent | $47K | $22.48/hr | 1,330 |
| Punta Gorda | $47K | $22.48/hr | 440 |
| Crestview-Fort Walton Beach-Destin | $47K | $22.48/hr | 530 |
| Orlando-Kissimmee-Sanford | $46K | $22/hr | 1,070 |
Correctional Officers and Jailers salary range in Florida
Correctional Officers and Jailers careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a correctional officers and jailers make in Florida?▼
The median correctional officers and jailers salary in Florida is $48,260 per year ($23.2/hr). This is 17% below the national median of $57,970. Salaries range from $45,760 to $81,600.
What are the requirements to become a correctional officers and jailers in Florida?▼
Correctional Officers and Jailers positions in Florida typically require High school diploma or equivalent. Florida may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the Florida licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a correctional officers and jailers afford to live in Florida?▼
At the median salary of $48,260, a correctional officers and jailers in Florida would take home approximately $3,401/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 41.5% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for correctional officers and jailers in Florida?▼
The highest paying metro areas for correctional officers and jailers in Florida are Naples-Marco Island ($77,850), Wildwood-The Villages ($71,650), Miami-Fort Lauderdale-West Palm Beach ($68,100). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does Florida have state income tax for correctional officers and jailers?▼
No, Florida does not have a state income tax. This means correctional officers and jailers keep more of their gross salary compared to states with income tax — a significant advantage for affordability.