Police and Sheriff's Patrol Officers Salary in Atlanta, GA
BLS Occupational Employment & Wage Statistics • May 2025 • Atlanta-Sandy Springs-Roswell, GA
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In Atlanta, GA, Police and Sheriff's Patrol Officers earn a median annual salary of $60,990, which is approximately $15,300 below the national median of $76,290 for the same occupation. When compared to local household income, where the area median stands at $86,338, the earnings of these officers represent about 70% of the typical household's income. This suggests that while police and sheriff's patrol officers contribute a significant portion towards family finances, they generally earn less than the average household in Atlanta.
The salary range for Police and Sheriff's Patrol Officers in Atlanta varies depending on experience levels. Entry-level officers can expect to earn near the 10th percentile at $48,550 annually, reflecting initial compensation that aligns with their developing skills and responsibilities. Conversely, more experienced officers who have advanced through the ranks or demonstrated exceptional performance might reach salaries as high as the 90th percentile, earning up to $79,010 annually. The difference between these figures is driven by factors such as years of service, additional training, specialized assignments, leadership roles, and merit-based increases, which together contribute to a broad salary range within this occupation.
Salary percentile breakdown
Atlanta economic context
Frequently asked questions
How much do Police and Sheriff's Patrol Officers make per hour in Atlanta?
The median hourly wage for Police and Sheriff's Patrol Officers in Atlanta, GA is $29.32, based on BLS OEWS 2025 data. Top earners (90th percentile) make $38.12 or more per hour.
Is Atlanta above or below average for Police and Sheriff's Patrol Officers salaries?
The median Police and Sheriff's Patrol Officers salary in Atlanta, GA is 20.1% below the national median of $76,290. The national figure is from BLS OEWS 2025 data covering all US metropolitan areas.
What is the entry-level salary for Police and Sheriff's Patrol Officers in Atlanta?
Entry-level Police and Sheriff's Patrol Officers (10th percentile) earn around $48,550 per year in Atlanta, GA. The 25th percentile — typically workers with 1–3 years of experience — earn approximately $54,920.