How to Become a Police and Sheriff's Patrol Officers in Georgia
Police and Sheriff's Patrol Officers in Georgia earn a median salary of $56,350/year, which is 26% below the national average. Georgia has a state income tax of ~4.7%. After taxes and rent, a police and sheriff's patrol officers takes home approximately $2,311/month. Most positions require High school diploma or equivalent.
What a police and sheriff's patrol officers can afford in Georgia
Becoming a police and sheriff's patrol officers in Georgia
Meet education requirements
Police and Sheriff's Patrol Officers positions in Georgia typically require High school diploma or equivalent. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Georgia. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
This career typically involves moderate-term on-the-job training in Georgia. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.
Obtain Georgia licensure or certification
Georgia may require specific licensing or professional certification for police and sheriff's patrol officerss. Requirements vary by state — contact the Georgia Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.
Find positions in Georgia
Georgia employs 21,540 police and sheriff's patrol officers. The highest concentrations are in Atlanta-Sandy Springs-Roswell and Savannah.
Police and Sheriff's Patrol Officers salary by metro area in Georgia
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Atlanta-Sandy Springs-Roswell | $61K | $29.32/hr | 11,190 |
| Savannah | $61K | $29.28/hr | 1,170 |
| Dalton | $61K | $29.25/hr | 290 |
| Gainesville | $61K | $29.2/hr | 380 |
| Augusta-Richmond County | $57K | $27.52/hr | 1,050 |
| Athens-Clarke County | $57K | $27.36/hr | 500 |
| Brunswick-St. Simons | $54K | $25.91/hr | 300 |
| Albany | $54K | $25.86/hr | 360 |
| Warner Robins | $52K | $25.12/hr | 380 |
| Hinesville | $52K | $25.06/hr | 170 |
| Columbus | $50K | $24.28/hr | 760 |
| Macon-Bibb County | $45K | $21.83/hr | 710 |
| Rome | $45K | $21.63/hr | 240 |
| Valdosta | $43K | $20.82/hr | 260 |
Police and Sheriff's Patrol Officers salary range in Georgia
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 Georgia?▼
The median police and sheriff's patrol officers salary in Georgia is $56,350 per year ($27.09/hr). This is 26% below the national median of $76,290. Salaries range from $42,180 to $77,750.
What are the requirements to become a police and sheriff's patrol officers in Georgia?▼
Police and Sheriff's Patrol Officers positions in Georgia typically require High school diploma or equivalent. Georgia may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the Georgia licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a police and sheriff's patrol officers afford to live in Georgia?▼
At the median salary of $56,350, a police and sheriff's patrol officers in Georgia would take home approximately $3,723/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 37.9% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for police and sheriff's patrol officers in Georgia?▼
The highest paying metro areas for police and sheriff's patrol officers in Georgia are Atlanta-Sandy Springs-Roswell ($60,990), Savannah ($60,900), Dalton ($60,840). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does Georgia have state income tax for police and sheriff's patrol officers?▼
Yes, Georgia has a state income tax rate of approximately 4.7%. On a $56,350 salary, this means roughly $2,643/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.