Police Officer Salary in Athens, Georgia
The median police officer salary in Athens, GA is $59,211 per year, which is 10% below the national median and 3.2% below the Georgia state average.
Police Officer Pay in Athens: What to Expect (2026)
Athens offers a median police officer salary of $59,211, which is $1,974 below the Georgia state average of $61,185. Compared to the national median of $65,790, Athens pays below the national benchmark for this role.
Athens's cost of living is 90% of the national average, meaning salary figures here closely reflect actual purchasing power. This makes direct comparisons to other cities straightforward.
The salary range for police officers in Athens spans from $36,360 at the 10th percentile to $95,400 at the 90th percentile — a $59,040 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $37,800, while senior police officers with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $88,200. With a population of 127,064, Athens is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.
Police Officer Salary in Athens by Experience
In Athens, an entry-level police officer earns around $37,800, while experienced professionals earn up to $88,200 per year. The local cost of living index is 90% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Athens, GA
| Percentile | Athens |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $36,360 |
| 25th Percentile | $46,080 |
| Median (50th) | $59,211 |
| 75th Percentile | $78,480 |
| 90th Percentile | $95,400 |
Police Officer Salary in Other Georgia Cities
How to Become a Police Officer in Athens
Education
Most police officer positions require a high school diploma. Athens and the surrounding Georgia area have institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook
Nationally, police officer employment is projected to grow 3% over the next decade (as fast as average). Demand in Athens may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Police Officer Jobs in Athens
Browse open police officer positions in Athens, GA: