How to Become a Police and Sheriff's Patrol Officers in Pennsylvania
Police and Sheriff's Patrol Officers in Pennsylvania earn a median salary of $86,350/year, which is 13% above the national average. Pennsylvania has a state income tax of ~3.1%. After taxes and rent, a police and sheriff's patrol officers takes home approximately $4,128/month. Most positions require High school diploma or equivalent.
What a police and sheriff's patrol officers can afford in Pennsylvania
Becoming a police and sheriff's patrol officers in Pennsylvania
Meet education requirements
Police and Sheriff's Patrol Officers positions in Pennsylvania typically require High school diploma or equivalent. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Pennsylvania. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
This career typically involves moderate-term on-the-job training in Pennsylvania. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.
Obtain Pennsylvania licensure or certification
Pennsylvania may require specific licensing or professional certification for police and sheriff's patrol officerss. Requirements vary by state — contact the Pennsylvania Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.
Find positions in Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania employs 24,280 police and sheriff's patrol officers. The highest concentrations are in Erie and Gettysburg.
Police and Sheriff's Patrol Officers salary by metro area in Pennsylvania
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Erie | $94K | $45.33/hr | 610 |
| Gettysburg | $91K | $43.82/hr | 220 |
| Philadelphia-Camden-Wilmington | $91K | $43.58/hr | 12,400 |
| Lancaster | $89K | $42.72/hr | 690 |
| Reading | $88K | $42.28/hr | 640 |
| Allentown-Bethlehem-Easton | $86K | $41.37/hr | 1,460 |
| Harrisburg-Carlisle | $85K | $41.02/hr | 1,440 |
| State College | $85K | $40.63/hr | 260 |
| Pittsburgh | $82K | $39.55/hr | 4,800 |
| York-Hanover | $82K | $39.45/hr | 580 |
| Lebanon | $80K | $38.64/hr | 200 |
| Williamsport | $76K | $36.35/hr | 200 |
| Scranton--Wilkes-Barre | $74K | $35.61/hr | 1,190 |
| Chambersburg | $71K | $34.21/hr | 240 |
| Altoona | $71K | $33.94/hr | 240 |
Police and Sheriff's Patrol Officers salary range in Pennsylvania
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 Pennsylvania?▼
The median police and sheriff's patrol officers salary in Pennsylvania is $86,350 per year ($41.51/hr). This is 13% above the national median of $76,290. Salaries range from $50,070 to $112,380.
What are the requirements to become a police and sheriff's patrol officers in Pennsylvania?▼
Police and Sheriff's Patrol Officers positions in Pennsylvania typically require High school diploma or equivalent. Pennsylvania may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the Pennsylvania licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a police and sheriff's patrol officers afford to live in Pennsylvania?▼
At the median salary of $86,350, a police and sheriff's patrol officers in Pennsylvania would take home approximately $5,540/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 25.5% 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 Pennsylvania?▼
The highest paying metro areas for police and sheriff's patrol officers in Pennsylvania are Erie ($94,290), Gettysburg ($91,150), Philadelphia-Camden-Wilmington ($90,640). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does Pennsylvania have state income tax for police and sheriff's patrol officers?▼
Yes, Pennsylvania has a state income tax rate of approximately 3.1%. On a $86,350 salary, this means roughly $2,651/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.