Police and Sheriff's Patrol Officers Salary in Nashville, TN
BLS Occupational Employment & Wage Statistics • May 2025 • Nashville-Davidson--Murfreesboro--Franklin, TN
Compare Police and Sheriff's Patrol Officers salary & buying power
Type a city below to see how Nashville, TN stacks up on salary and cost of living.
In Nashville, TN, a typical Police and Sheriff's Patrol Officer earns an annual median salary of $66,210, which is about $10,080 below the national median for this occupation at $76,290. When compared to local household income, the police officer's earnings fall short; the area median household income stands at $82,499. This indicates that a typical patrol officer in Nashville earns less than the median household in their locality. Despite this discrepancy, the local unemployment rate is relatively low at 2.80%, suggesting a stable job market where law enforcement roles are crucial components.
For entry-level Police and Sheriff's Patrol Officers in Nashville, salaries tend to start closer to or below the 10th percentile mark of $48,890 annually. In contrast, more experienced officers can earn up to the 90th percentile at approximately $81,340 per year. This significant salary range is influenced by various factors including years of service, level of responsibility, education, and additional certifications or specializations within law enforcement. Experienced officers often take on roles that require greater expertise and leadership, which justifies their higher earnings compared to those newly entering the field.
Salary percentile breakdown
Nashville economic context
Frequently asked questions
How much do Police and Sheriff's Patrol Officers make per hour in Nashville?
The median hourly wage for Police and Sheriff's Patrol Officers in Nashville, TN is $31.83, based on BLS OEWS 2025 data. Top earners (90th percentile) make $45.10 or more per hour.
Is Nashville above or below average for Police and Sheriff's Patrol Officers salaries?
The median Police and Sheriff's Patrol Officers salary in Nashville, TN is 13.2% 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 Nashville?
Entry-level Police and Sheriff's Patrol Officers (10th percentile) earn around $48,890 per year in Nashville, TN. The 25th percentile — typically workers with 1–3 years of experience — earn approximately $55,210.