First-Line Supervisors of Police and Detectives: Salary, Education, and Career Path (2026)
The U.S. has 153,130 first-line supervisors of police and detectives, and they earn a median of $105,980/year. The range runs from $62K to $165K. California pays the most.
What it takes
The BLS lists the typical education for this role as varies by employer.
Entry-level first-line supervisors of police and detectives start around $62K. The gap between that and the median ($106K) is where experience, certifications, and location make the difference.
Top earners clear $165K, but that's the 90th percentile. Getting there usually takes a decade or more of experience, the right credentials, and being in a high-paying market.
Salary progression
Highest paying states
| State | Median salary | Employment |
|---|---|---|
| California | $163K | 12,980 |
| New Jersey | $144K | 7,420 |
| Illinois | $136K | 5,550 |
| District of Columbia | $135K | 1,250 |
| Washington | $134K | 2,570 |
| Nevada | $134K | 1,270 |
| Alaska | $132K | 330 |
| Hawaii | $129K | 690 |
| Oregon | $124K | 1,350 |
| New York | $123K | 12,470 |
Frequently asked questions
How much does a first-line supervisors of police and detectives make?▼
The median first-line supervisors of police and detectives salary in the United States is $105,980 per year ($51/hour). Entry-level positions start around $62,370, while experienced professionals earn up to $165,050.
What education do you need to become a first-line supervisors of police and detectives?▼
The BLS lists the typical entry-level education as varies by employer. State licensing or certification requirements vary, so check your state's board for specifics.
What is the job outlook for first-line supervisors of police and detectives?▼
Check the Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook for the latest employment projections for first-line supervisors of police and detectives.
What are the highest paying states for first-line supervisors of police and detectives?▼
The highest paying states for first-line supervisors of police and detectives are California ($162,740), New Jersey ($144,160), Illinois ($136,440), District of Columbia ($134,760), Washington ($134,120). Salaries vary significantly by location due to cost of living and local demand.