Correctional Officer Salary in Arkansas
The median correctional officer salary in Arkansas is $41,672 per year, which is 16% below the national median of $49,610.
Correctional Officer Salary Overview in Arkansas (2026)
Arkansas ranks #48 out of 50 states for correctional officer compensation. Correctional Officer salaries in Arkansas are below the national median, though the lower cost of living can offset the difference. At $41,672 per year, correctional officers in Arkansas earn $7,938 less than the national median of $49,610.
A key advantage of working in Arkansas is its below-average cost of living (84% of the national index). This means the $41,672 salary has the purchasing power of roughly $49,610 in an average-cost area.
The salary spread in Arkansas is significant: correctional officers at the 10th percentile earn $27,720, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $65,520 — a $37,800 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in Arkansas for this role is Fayetteville, where the median reaches $43,657.
Nationally, correctional officer employment is projected to grow -2% over the next decade (decline). Despite slower growth nationally, experienced correctional officers with in-demand specializations continue to command strong salaries.
Correctional Officer Salary in Arkansas by Experience
In Arkansas, an entry-level correctional officer earns around $29,400, while experienced professionals earn up to $60,480 per year. The cost of living index in Arkansas is 84% of the national average.
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Check Your Rate — No Credit Impact →Salary Percentiles in Arkansas
| Percentile | AR Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $27,720 |
| 25th Percentile | $32,760 |
| Median (50th) | $41,672 |
| 75th Percentile | $52,920 |
| 90th Percentile | $65,520 |
Correctional Officer Salary by City in Arkansas
The largest employment areas for correctional officers in Arkansas include Little Rock, Fort Smith, Fayetteville, and Springdale. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.
How to Become a Correctional Officer in Arkansas
Education
Most correctional officer positions require a high school diploma. Arkansas has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Arkansas
Nationally, correctional officer employment is projected to grow -2% over the next decade (decline). Arkansas's demand may vary based on local industry trends.
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