Public Service Rhode Island (RI) Rank #13 of 50

Correctional Officer Salary in Rhode Island

The median correctional officer salary in Rhode Island is $52,091 per year, which is 5.0% above the national median of $49,610.

Median Salary
$52,091
vs National
+$2,481
State Rank
#13 of 50
Cost of Living
105%

Correctional Officer Salary Overview in Rhode Island (2026)

Rhode Island ranks #13 out of 50 states for correctional officer compensation. Rhode Island falls in the middle of the pack for correctional officer pay, offering salaries near the national average. At $52,091 per year, correctional officers in Rhode Island earn $2,481 more than the national median of $49,610.

Rhode Island's cost of living is near the national average at 105%, meaning correctional officer salaries here translate closely to their face value in purchasing power.

The salary spread in Rhode Island is significant: correctional officers at the 10th percentile earn $34,650, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $81,900 — a $47,250 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in Rhode Island for this role is Providence, where the median reaches $53,579.

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 Rhode Island by Experience

In Rhode Island, an entry-level correctional officer earns around $36,750, while experienced professionals earn up to $75,600 per year. The cost of living index in Rhode Island is 105% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$36,750
+$1,750 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$52,500
+$2,500 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$75,600
+$3,600 vs national

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Salary Percentiles in Rhode Island

Percentile RI Salary
10th Percentile $34,650
25th Percentile $40,950
Median (50th) $52,091
75th Percentile $66,150
90th Percentile $81,900

Correctional Officer Salary by City in Rhode Island

The largest employment areas for correctional officers in Rhode Island include Providence, Warwick, Cranston, and Pawtucket. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.

How to Become a Correctional Officer in Rhode Island

Education

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

Key Skills

SecurityConflict ResolutionReport WritingPhysical FitnessCommunicationCrisis Management

Job Outlook in Rhode Island

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

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Frequently Asked Questions: Correctional Officer Salary in Rhode Island

How much does a Correctional Officer make in Rhode Island? ▼
The median correctional officer salary in Rhode Island is $52,091 per year, which is 5.0% above the national median of $49,610. Salaries range from $34,650 (10th percentile) to $81,900 (90th percentile).
How much does a Correctional Officer make per hour in Rhode Island? ▼
Based on the median annual salary of $52,091, a correctional officer in Rhode Island earns approximately $25 per hour assuming a standard 2,080-hour work year.
Is Rhode Island a good state for correctional officers? ▼
Rhode Island ranks #13 out of 50 states for correctional officer pay. The cost of living index is 105% of the national average. Entry-level correctional officers earn $36,750, while senior professionals earn $75,600.
How does Rhode Island compare to other states for correctional officer salary? ▼
The highest paying state for correctional officers is Hawaii at $84,337. Rhode Island's median of $52,091 ranks #13 nationally. Nearby-ranked states include Colorado ($52,091) and New Hampshire ($52,091).
What is the entry-level correctional officer salary in Rhode Island? ▼
An entry-level correctional officer in Rhode Island earns approximately $36,750 per year. With 3-7 years of experience, pay increases to around $52,500. Senior-level professionals with 8+ years earn up to $75,600.
What city in Rhode Island pays correctional officers the most? ▼
Providence is the highest paying city in Rhode Island for correctional officers, with a median salary of $53,579. Other cities include Warwick and Cranston.