Correctional Officer Salary in Delaware
The median correctional officer salary in Delaware is $50,106 per year, which is 1.0% above the national median of $49,610.
Correctional Officer Salary Overview in Delaware (2026)
Delaware ranks #15 out of 50 states for correctional officer compensation. Delaware falls in the middle of the pack for correctional officer pay, offering salaries near the national average. At $50,106 per year, correctional officers in Delaware earn $496 more than the national median of $49,610.
Delaware's cost of living is near the national average at 101%, meaning correctional officer salaries here translate closely to their face value in purchasing power.
The salary spread in Delaware is significant: correctional officers at the 10th percentile earn $33,330, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $78,780 — a $45,450 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in Delaware for this role is Wilmington, where the median reaches $52,091.
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 Delaware by Experience
In Delaware, an entry-level correctional officer earns around $35,350, while experienced professionals earn up to $72,720 per year. The cost of living index in Delaware is 101% of the national average.
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Check Your Rate — No Credit Impact →Salary Percentiles in Delaware
| Percentile | DE Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $33,330 |
| 25th Percentile | $39,390 |
| Median (50th) | $50,106 |
| 75th Percentile | $63,630 |
| 90th Percentile | $78,780 |
Correctional Officer Salary by City in Delaware
The largest employment areas for correctional officers in Delaware include Wilmington, Dover, Newark, and Middletown. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.
How to Become a Correctional Officer in Delaware
Education
Most correctional officer positions require a high school diploma. Delaware has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Delaware
Nationally, correctional officer employment is projected to grow -2% over the next decade (decline). Delaware's demand may vary based on local industry trends.
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