Public Service Hawaii (HI) Rank #1 of 50

Correctional Officer Salary in Hawaii

The median correctional officer salary in Hawaii is $84,337 per year, which is 70.0% above the national median of $49,610.

Median Salary
$84,337
vs National
+$34,727
State Rank
#1 of 50
Cost of Living
170%

Correctional Officer Salary Overview in Hawaii (2026)

Hawaii ranks #1 out of 50 states for correctional officer compensation. This places Hawaii in the top tier nationally, making it one of the best states for correctional officers seeking high pay. At $84,337 per year, correctional officers in Hawaii earn $34,727 more than the national median of $49,610.

It's worth noting that Hawaii's cost of living is 170% of the national average, which reduces the real purchasing power of the $84,337 salary. After adjusting for cost of living, the effective salary is closer to $49,610.

The salary spread in Hawaii is significant: correctional officers at the 10th percentile earn $56,100, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $132,600 — a $76,500 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in Hawaii for this role is Honolulu, where the median reaches $86,818.

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 Hawaii by Experience

In Hawaii, an entry-level correctional officer earns around $59,500, while experienced professionals earn up to $122,400 per year. The cost of living index in Hawaii is 170% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$59,500
+$24,500 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$85,000
+$35,000 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$122,400
+$50,400 vs national

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Salary Percentiles in Hawaii

Percentile HI Salary
10th Percentile $56,100
25th Percentile $66,300
Median (50th) $84,337
75th Percentile $107,100
90th Percentile $132,600

Correctional Officer Salary by City in Hawaii

The largest employment areas for correctional officers in Hawaii include Honolulu, Pearl City, Hilo, and Kailua. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.

How to Become a Correctional Officer in Hawaii

Education

Most correctional officer positions require a high school diploma. Hawaii has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.

Key Skills

SecurityConflict ResolutionReport WritingPhysical FitnessCommunicationCrisis Management

Job Outlook in Hawaii

Nationally, correctional officer employment is projected to grow -2% over the next decade (decline). Hawaii's demand may vary based on local industry trends.

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Frequently Asked Questions: Correctional Officer Salary in Hawaii

How much does a Correctional Officer make in Hawaii? ▼
The median correctional officer salary in Hawaii is $84,337 per year, which is 70.0% above the national median of $49,610. Salaries range from $56,100 (10th percentile) to $132,600 (90th percentile).
How much does a Correctional Officer make per hour in Hawaii? ▼
Based on the median annual salary of $84,337, a correctional officer in Hawaii earns approximately $41 per hour assuming a standard 2,080-hour work year.
Is Hawaii a good state for correctional officers? ▼
Hawaii ranks #1 out of 50 states for correctional officer pay. The cost of living index is 170% of the national average. Entry-level correctional officers earn $59,500, while senior professionals earn $122,400.
How does Hawaii compare to other states for correctional officer salary? ▼
The highest paying state for correctional officers is Hawaii at $84,337. Hawaii's median of $84,337 ranks #1 nationally. Nearby-ranked states include California ($68,462) and Massachusetts ($66,974).
What is the entry-level correctional officer salary in Hawaii? ▼
An entry-level correctional officer in Hawaii earns approximately $59,500 per year. With 3-7 years of experience, pay increases to around $85,000. Senior-level professionals with 8+ years earn up to $122,400.
What city in Hawaii pays correctional officers the most? ▼
Honolulu is the highest paying city in Hawaii for correctional officers, with a median salary of $86,818. Other cities include Pearl City and Hilo.