Correctional Officer Salary in Pennsylvania
The median correctional officer salary in Pennsylvania is $47,626 per year, which is 4% below the national median of $49,610.
Correctional Officer Salary Overview in Pennsylvania (2026)
Pennsylvania ranks #23 out of 50 states for correctional officer compensation. Pennsylvania falls in the middle of the pack for correctional officer pay, offering salaries near the national average. At $47,626 per year, correctional officers in Pennsylvania earn $1,984 less than the national median of $49,610.
Pennsylvania's cost of living is near the national average at 96%, meaning correctional officer salaries here translate closely to their face value in purchasing power.
The salary spread in Pennsylvania is significant: correctional officers at the 10th percentile earn $31,680, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $74,880 — a $43,200 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in Pennsylvania for this role is Philadelphia, where the median reaches $50,602.
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 Pennsylvania by Experience
In Pennsylvania, an entry-level correctional officer earns around $33,600, while experienced professionals earn up to $69,120 per year. The cost of living index in Pennsylvania is 96% of the national average.
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Check Your Rate — No Credit Impact →Salary Percentiles in Pennsylvania
| Percentile | PA Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $31,680 |
| 25th Percentile | $37,440 |
| Median (50th) | $47,626 |
| 75th Percentile | $60,480 |
| 90th Percentile | $74,880 |
Correctional Officer Salary by City in Pennsylvania
The largest employment areas for correctional officers in Pennsylvania include Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, Allentown, and Reading. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.
How to Become a Correctional Officer in Pennsylvania
Education
Most correctional officer positions require a high school diploma. Pennsylvania has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Pennsylvania
Nationally, correctional officer employment is projected to grow -2% over the next decade (decline). Pennsylvania's demand may vary based on local industry trends.
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