How to Become a Police and Sheriff's Patrol Officers in Tennessee
Police and Sheriff's Patrol Officers in Tennessee earn a median salary of $59,410/year, which is 22% below the national average. Tennessee has no state income tax. After taxes and rent, a police and sheriff's patrol officers takes home approximately $2,736/month. Most positions require High school diploma or equivalent.
What a police and sheriff's patrol officers can afford in Tennessee
Becoming a police and sheriff's patrol officers in Tennessee
Meet education requirements
Police and Sheriff's Patrol Officers positions in Tennessee typically require High school diploma or equivalent. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Tennessee. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
This career typically involves moderate-term on-the-job training in Tennessee. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.
Obtain Tennessee licensure or certification
Tennessee may require specific licensing or professional certification for police and sheriff's patrol officerss. Requirements vary by state — contact the Tennessee Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.
Find positions in Tennessee
Tennessee employs 13,780 police and sheriff's patrol officers. The highest concentrations are in Memphis and Nashville-Davidson--Murfreesboro--Franklin.
Police and Sheriff's Patrol Officers salary by metro area in Tennessee
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Memphis | $73K | $34.98/hr | 3,520 |
| Nashville-Davidson--Murfreesboro--Franklin | $66K | $31.83/hr | 3,970 |
| Knoxville | $60K | $29.07/hr | 1,790 |
| Clarksville | $58K | $28.03/hr | 470 |
| Jackson | $53K | $25.67/hr | 380 |
| Kingsport-Bristol | $51K | $24.31/hr | 640 |
| Cleveland | $50K | $23.85/hr | 200 |
| Johnson City | $49K | $23.7/hr | 310 |
| Chattanooga | $49K | $23.63/hr | 650 |
| Morristown | $46K | $22.21/hr | 280 |
Police and Sheriff's Patrol Officers salary range in Tennessee
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 Tennessee?▼
The median police and sheriff's patrol officers salary in Tennessee is $59,410 per year ($28.56/hr). This is 22% below the national median of $76,290. Salaries range from $40,940 to $81,340.
What are the requirements to become a police and sheriff's patrol officers in Tennessee?▼
Police and Sheriff's Patrol Officers positions in Tennessee typically require High school diploma or equivalent. Tennessee may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the Tennessee licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a police and sheriff's patrol officers afford to live in Tennessee?▼
At the median salary of $59,410, a police and sheriff's patrol officers in Tennessee would take home approximately $4,148/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 34% 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 Tennessee?▼
The highest paying metro areas for police and sheriff's patrol officers in Tennessee are Memphis ($72,760), Nashville-Davidson--Murfreesboro--Franklin ($66,210), Knoxville ($60,460). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does Tennessee have state income tax for police and sheriff's patrol officers?▼
No, Tennessee does not have a state income tax. This means police and sheriff's patrol officers keep more of their gross salary compared to states with income tax — a significant advantage for affordability.