Correctional Officers and Jailers Salary in Houston, TX

BLS Occupational Employment & Wage Statistics • May 2025 • Houston-Pasadena-The Woodlands, TX

Median annual salary $51,020 -12% vs national
Median hourly $24.53
10th percentile $47,040
90th percentile $57,970
Employed locally 8,060
National median $57,970

Compare Correctional Officers and Jailers salary & buying power

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Correctional Officers and Jailers
in
Houston, TX
vs

    In Houston, TX, the typical correctional officer or jailer earns a median annual salary of $51,020, which translates to approximately $24.53 per hour. When compared to the local area's median household income of $80,458, it is evident that those in this occupation earn less than the average household, making up about 63% of the median household income. Nationally, the median salary for correctional officers and jailers stands at $57,970, indicating that Houston-based professionals in this field generally earn below the national median by roughly $6,950 annually.

    For entry-level correctional officers and jailers in Houston, the earnings start around the 10th percentile mark of $47,040 annually. In contrast, those with more experience who are closer to or at the 75th percentile can expect to earn up to approximately $54,330 per year. The salary difference between these percentiles reflects factors such as tenure, additional skills, certifications, and responsibilities that might be acquired over time within their roles. Moreover, workers in the 90th percentile can make around $57,970 annually, aligning with the national median, suggesting that experienced professionals in Houston have opportunities to earn competitive salaries comparable to those across the country.

    Salary percentile breakdown

    10th
    $47,040
    25th
    $47,930
    50th (median)
    $51,020
    75th
    $54,330
    90th
    $57,970

    Houston economic context

    Unemployment rate 4.40% 2024 annual avg • BLS LAUS
    Median household income $80,458 2023 • Census ACS
    Correctional Officers and Jailers salary vs area income 63% Median Correctional Officers and Jailers salary is 37% below the area median household income

    Frequently asked questions

    How much do Correctional Officers and Jailers make per hour in Houston?

    The median hourly wage for Correctional Officers and Jailers in Houston, TX is $24.53, based on BLS OEWS 2025 data. Top earners (90th percentile) make $28.18 or more per hour.

    Is Houston above or below average for Correctional Officers and Jailers salaries?

    The median Correctional Officers and Jailers salary in Houston, TX is 12% below the national median of $57,970. The national figure is from BLS OEWS 2025 data covering all US metropolitan areas.

    What is the entry-level salary for Correctional Officers and Jailers in Houston?

    Entry-level Correctional Officers and Jailers (10th percentile) earn around $47,040 per year in Houston, TX. The 25th percentile — typically workers with 1–3 years of experience — earn approximately $47,930.