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Public Safety · Arizona

How to Become a Police and Sheriff's Patrol Officers in Arizona

Police and Sheriff's Patrol Officers in Arizona earn a median salary of $79,370/year, which is 4% above the national average. Arizona has a state income tax of ~2.5%. After taxes and rent, a police and sheriff's patrol officers takes home approximately $3,775/month. Most positions require High school diploma or equivalent.

$79K
Median salary in Arizona
+4%
vs. national average
2.5%
State income tax
12,430
Employed in Arizona

What a police and sheriff's patrol officers can afford in Arizona

Gross annual salary$79,370
Est. monthly take-home (after fed + 2.5% state tax)$5,187/mo
Median 2BR rent (Arizona)-$1,412/mo
Rent as % of take-home27.2% (within guideline)
Cost-of-living adjusted salary$79,370/yr (RPP: 100)
Monthly remaining after rent$3,775/mo

Becoming a police and sheriff's patrol officers in Arizona

1

Meet education requirements

Police and Sheriff's Patrol Officers positions in Arizona typically require High school diploma or equivalent. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Arizona. Research accredited programs in your area.

2

Gain required experience

This career typically involves moderate-term on-the-job training in Arizona. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.

3

Obtain Arizona licensure or certification

Arizona may require specific licensing or professional certification for police and sheriff's patrol officerss. Requirements vary by state — contact the Arizona Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.

4

Find positions in Arizona

Arizona employs 12,430 police and sheriff's patrol officers. The highest concentrations are in Phoenix-Mesa-Chandler and Tucson.

Police and Sheriff's Patrol Officers salary by metro area in Arizona

Metro areaMedianHourlyEmployment
Phoenix-Mesa-Chandler$92K$44.04/hr7,750
Tucson$78K$37.59/hr1,700
Flagstaff$78K$37.29/hr360
Prescott Valley-Prescott$75K$36.16/hr520
Lake Havasu City-Kingman$66K$31.96/hr420
Yuma$66K$31.58/hr440
Sierra Vista-Douglas$59K$28.58/hr280

Police and Sheriff's Patrol Officers salary range in Arizona

10th percentile (entry)
$60K
25th percentile
$69K
Median (50th)
$79K
75th percentile
$97K
90th percentile (senior)
$100K
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Full police and sheriff's patrol officers salary breakdown in Arizona
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After federal + 2.5% state tax
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Police and Sheriff's Patrol Officers careers in other states

Frequently asked questions

How much does a police and sheriff's patrol officers make in Arizona?

The median police and sheriff's patrol officers salary in Arizona is $79,370 per year ($38.16/hr). This is 4% above the national median of $76,290. Salaries range from $59,760 to $100,430.

What are the requirements to become a police and sheriff's patrol officers in Arizona?

Police and Sheriff's Patrol Officers positions in Arizona typically require High school diploma or equivalent. Arizona may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the Arizona licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.

Can a police and sheriff's patrol officers afford to live in Arizona?

At the median salary of $79,370, a police and sheriff's patrol officers in Arizona would take home approximately $5,187/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 27.2% of take-home pay going to housing. This is within the recommended 30% guideline.

What are the best cities for police and sheriff's patrol officers in Arizona?

The highest paying metro areas for police and sheriff's patrol officers in Arizona are Phoenix-Mesa-Chandler ($91,600), Tucson ($78,180), Flagstaff ($77,550). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.

Does Arizona have state income tax for police and sheriff's patrol officers?

Yes, Arizona has a state income tax rate of approximately 2.5%. On a $79,370 salary, this means roughly $1,984/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.