Salary Guides June 20, 2026
Probation Officer Salary: Complete 2026 Guide
Probation officers earn a median salary of $60,250 per year nationally. Pay ranges from $38,000 (10th percentile) to $92,000 (90th percentile) depending on location, experience, and specialization.
$60,250
Median Salary
$40,000
Entry Level
$88,000
Senior Level
+3%
Job Growth
Salary by Experience Level
| Level | Annual Salary | Monthly |
|---|---|---|
| Entry Level (0-2 years) | $40,000 | $3,333/mo |
| Mid Level (3-7 years) | $62,000 | $5,167/mo |
| Senior Level (8+ years) | $88,000 | $7,333/mo |
Top 5 Highest Paying States
| State | Median Salary | vs National |
|---|---|---|
| Hawaii | $102,425 | +70% |
| California | $83,145 | +38% |
| Massachusetts | $81,338 | +35% |
| Alaska | $74,710 | +24% |
| New York | $73,505 | +22% |
Lowest Paying States
| State | Median Salary | vs National |
|---|---|---|
| Mississippi | $50,008 | -17% |
| West Virginia | $50,610 | -16% |
| Arkansas | $50,610 | -16% |
| Oklahoma | $51,815 | -14% |
| Kentucky | $52,418 | -13% |
What Do Probation Officers Do?
Probation officers monitor offenders on probation or parole, ensuring compliance with court-ordered conditions.
Key responsibilities include:
- Monitoring offenders' compliance with court-ordered conditions
- Conducting home visits and drug testing
- Writing pre-sentence reports for judges
- Connecting offenders with rehabilitation resources
- Testifying in court proceedings
Education & Requirements
- Education: Bachelor's degree
- Common degrees: Criminal Justice, Criminology, Social Work, Psychology
- Certification: Varies by state — some require POST certification
- Skills: Communication, conflict resolution, report writing, knowledge of criminal law
Find Probation Officer Jobs
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