Police Officer Salary in Delaware
The median police officer salary in Delaware is $66,448 per year, which is 1.0% above the national median of $65,790.
Police Officer Salary Overview in Delaware (2026)
Delaware ranks #15 out of 50 states for police officer compensation. Delaware falls in the middle of the pack for police officer pay, offering salaries near the national average. At $66,448 per year, police officers in Delaware earn $658 more than the national median of $65,790.
Delaware's cost of living is near the national average at 101%, meaning police officer salaries here translate closely to their face value in purchasing power.
The salary spread in Delaware is significant: police officers at the 10th percentile earn $40,804, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $107,060 — a $66,256 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 $69,080.
Nationally, police officer employment is projected to grow 3% over the next decade (as fast as average). This steady growth indicates stable demand for police officers across the country.
Police Officer Salary in Delaware by Experience
In Delaware, an entry-level police officer earns around $42,420, while experienced professionals earn up to $98,980 per year. The cost of living index in Delaware is 101% of the national average.
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See Investment Options →Salary Percentiles in Delaware
| Percentile | DE Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $40,804 |
| 25th Percentile | $51,712 |
| Median (50th) | $66,448 |
| 75th Percentile | $88,072 |
| 90th Percentile | $107,060 |
Police Officer Salary by City in Delaware
The largest employment areas for police 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 Police Officer in Delaware
Education
Most police officer positions require a high school diploma. Delaware has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Delaware
Nationally, police officer employment is projected to grow 3% over the next decade (as fast as average). Delaware's demand may vary based on local industry trends.
Negotiate Your Way to Senior Pay
Data shows Police Officers who negotiate earn 7–15% more. A single negotiation could add $32,532 over your career trajectory.
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