How to Become a Police and Sheriff's Patrol Officers in Wisconsin
Police and Sheriff's Patrol Officers in Wisconsin earn a median salary of $78,980/year, which is 4% above the national average. Wisconsin has a state income tax of ~4.0%. After taxes and rent, a police and sheriff's patrol officers takes home approximately $3,655/month. Most positions require High school diploma or equivalent.
What a police and sheriff's patrol officers can afford in Wisconsin
Becoming a police and sheriff's patrol officers in Wisconsin
Meet education requirements
Police and Sheriff's Patrol Officers positions in Wisconsin typically require High school diploma or equivalent. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Wisconsin. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
This career typically involves moderate-term on-the-job training in Wisconsin. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.
Obtain Wisconsin licensure or certification
Wisconsin may require specific licensing or professional certification for police and sheriff's patrol officerss. Requirements vary by state — contact the Wisconsin Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.
Find positions in Wisconsin
Wisconsin employs 11,500 police and sheriff's patrol officers. The highest concentrations are in Milwaukee-Waukesha and Racine-Mount Pleasant.
Police and Sheriff's Patrol Officers salary by metro area in Wisconsin
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Milwaukee-Waukesha | $92K | $44.07/hr | 3,580 |
| Racine-Mount Pleasant | $85K | $41.09/hr | 300 |
| Fond du Lac | $83K | $39.96/hr | 220 |
| Madison | $83K | $39.96/hr | 1,560 |
| Oshkosh-Neenah | $81K | $39.01/hr | 280 |
| Green Bay | $80K | $38.57/hr | 590 |
| Kenosha | $80K | $38.26/hr | 360 |
| Appleton | $79K | $38.03/hr | 360 |
| Wausau | $79K | $38.02/hr | 240 |
| Sheboygan | $76K | $36.48/hr | 180 |
| Janesville-Beloit | $74K | $35.53/hr | 310 |
| Eau Claire | $69K | $33.39/hr | 300 |
| La Crosse-Onalaska | $68K | $32.48/hr | 290 |
Police and Sheriff's Patrol Officers salary range in Wisconsin
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 Wisconsin?▼
The median police and sheriff's patrol officers salary in Wisconsin is $78,980 per year ($37.97/hr). This is 4% above the national median of $76,290. Salaries range from $55,450 to $93,460.
What are the requirements to become a police and sheriff's patrol officers in Wisconsin?▼
Police and Sheriff's Patrol Officers positions in Wisconsin typically require High school diploma or equivalent. Wisconsin may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the Wisconsin licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a police and sheriff's patrol officers afford to live in Wisconsin?▼
At the median salary of $78,980, a police and sheriff's patrol officers in Wisconsin would take home approximately $5,067/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 27.9% 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 Wisconsin?▼
The highest paying metro areas for police and sheriff's patrol officers in Wisconsin are Milwaukee-Waukesha ($91,670), Racine-Mount Pleasant ($85,480), Fond du Lac ($83,120). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does Wisconsin have state income tax for police and sheriff's patrol officers?▼
Yes, Wisconsin has a state income tax rate of approximately 4.0%. On a $78,980 salary, this means roughly $3,140/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.