How to Become a Police and Sheriff's Patrol Officers in North Carolina
Police and Sheriff's Patrol Officers in North Carolina earn a median salary of $58,030/year, which is 24% below the national average. North Carolina has a state income tax of ~4.5%. After taxes and rent, a police and sheriff's patrol officers takes home approximately $2,426/month. Most positions require High school diploma or equivalent.
What a police and sheriff's patrol officers can afford in North Carolina
Becoming a police and sheriff's patrol officers in North Carolina
Meet education requirements
Police and Sheriff's Patrol Officers positions in North Carolina typically require High school diploma or equivalent. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across North Carolina. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
This career typically involves moderate-term on-the-job training in North Carolina. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.
Obtain North Carolina licensure or certification
North Carolina may require specific licensing or professional certification for police and sheriff's patrol officerss. Requirements vary by state — contact the North Carolina Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.
Find positions in North Carolina
North Carolina employs 21,650 police and sheriff's patrol officers. The highest concentrations are in Raleigh-Cary and Burlington.
Police and Sheriff's Patrol Officers salary by metro area in North Carolina
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Raleigh-Cary | $66K | $31.63/hr | 2,140 |
| Burlington | $65K | $31.46/hr | 340 |
| Charlotte-Concord-Gastonia | $65K | $31.36/hr | 5,830 |
| Greensboro-High Point | $60K | $28.92/hr | 1,760 |
| Durham-Chapel Hill | $60K | $28.77/hr | 1,140 |
| Greenville | $57K | $27.33/hr | 540 |
| Winston-Salem | $56K | $26.85/hr | 1,290 |
| Rocky Mount | $55K | $26.44/hr | 360 |
| Asheville | $54K | $26.09/hr | 680 |
| Wilmington | $54K | $25.77/hr | 1,050 |
| Fayetteville | $53K | $25.46/hr | 720 |
| Hickory-Lenoir-Morganton | $52K | $25.13/hr | 770 |
| Pinehurst-Southern Pines | $52K | $25.09/hr | 190 |
| Jacksonville | $52K | $25.08/hr | 360 |
| Goldsboro | $49K | $23.58/hr | 190 |
Police and Sheriff's Patrol Officers salary range in North Carolina
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 North Carolina?▼
The median police and sheriff's patrol officers salary in North Carolina is $58,030 per year ($27.9/hr). This is 24% below the national median of $76,290. Salaries range from $44,850 to $80,920.
What are the requirements to become a police and sheriff's patrol officers in North Carolina?▼
Police and Sheriff's Patrol Officers positions in North Carolina typically require High school diploma or equivalent. North Carolina may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the North Carolina licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a police and sheriff's patrol officers afford to live in North Carolina?▼
At the median salary of $58,030, a police and sheriff's patrol officers in North Carolina would take home approximately $3,838/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 36.8% 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 North Carolina?▼
The highest paying metro areas for police and sheriff's patrol officers in North Carolina are Raleigh-Cary ($65,800), Burlington ($65,440), Charlotte-Concord-Gastonia ($65,230). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does North Carolina have state income tax for police and sheriff's patrol officers?▼
Yes, North Carolina has a state income tax rate of approximately 4.5%. On a $58,030 salary, this means roughly $2,611/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.