How to Become a Police and Sheriff's Patrol Officers in Louisiana
Police and Sheriff's Patrol Officers in Louisiana earn a median salary of $50,580/year, which is 34% below the national average. Louisiana has a state income tax of ~3.1%. After taxes and rent, a police and sheriff's patrol officers takes home approximately $2,014/month. Most positions require High school diploma or equivalent.
What a police and sheriff's patrol officers can afford in Louisiana
Becoming a police and sheriff's patrol officers in Louisiana
Meet education requirements
Police and Sheriff's Patrol Officers positions in Louisiana typically require High school diploma or equivalent. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Louisiana. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
This career typically involves moderate-term on-the-job training in Louisiana. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.
Obtain Louisiana licensure or certification
Louisiana may require specific licensing or professional certification for police and sheriff's patrol officerss. Requirements vary by state — contact the Louisiana Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.
Find positions in Louisiana
Louisiana employs 14,340 police and sheriff's patrol officers. The highest concentrations are in Shreveport-Bossier City and Lake Charles.
Police and Sheriff's Patrol Officers salary by metro area in Louisiana
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Shreveport-Bossier City | $61K | $29.25/hr | 1,420 |
| Lake Charles | $56K | $26.77/hr | 2,290 |
| New Orleans-Metairie | $55K | $26.21/hr | 2,900 |
| Monroe | $53K | $25.27/hr | 590 |
| Baton Rouge | $51K | $24.52/hr | 2,010 |
| Lafayette | $51K | $24.48/hr | 1,170 |
| Slidell-Mandeville-Covington | $48K | $23.25/hr | 920 |
| Houma-Bayou Cane-Thibodaux | $44K | $21.23/hr | 490 |
| Alexandria | $43K | $20.8/hr | 460 |
| Hammond | $36K | $17.39/hr | 300 |
Police and Sheriff's Patrol Officers salary range in Louisiana
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 Louisiana?▼
The median police and sheriff's patrol officers salary in Louisiana is $50,580 per year ($24.32/hr). This is 34% below the national median of $76,290. Salaries range from $35,170 to $73,270.
What are the requirements to become a police and sheriff's patrol officers in Louisiana?▼
Police and Sheriff's Patrol Officers positions in Louisiana typically require High school diploma or equivalent. Louisiana may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the Louisiana licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a police and sheriff's patrol officers afford to live in Louisiana?▼
At the median salary of $50,580, a police and sheriff's patrol officers in Louisiana would take home approximately $3,426/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 41.2% 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 Louisiana?▼
The highest paying metro areas for police and sheriff's patrol officers in Louisiana are Shreveport-Bossier City ($60,840), Lake Charles ($55,670), New Orleans-Metairie ($54,510). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does Louisiana have state income tax for police and sheriff's patrol officers?▼
Yes, Louisiana has a state income tax rate of approximately 3.1%. On a $50,580 salary, this means roughly $1,568/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.