Police Officer Salary in Louisiana
The median police officer salary in Louisiana is $59,869 per year, which is 9% below the national median of $65,790.
Police Officer Salary Overview in Louisiana (2026)
Louisiana ranks #33 out of 50 states for police officer compensation. Police Officer salaries in Louisiana are below the national median, though the lower cost of living can offset the difference. At $59,869 per year, police officers in Louisiana earn $5,921 less than the national median of $65,790.
A key advantage of working in Louisiana is its below-average cost of living (91% of the national index). This means the $59,869 salary has the purchasing power of roughly $65,790 in an average-cost area.
The salary spread in Louisiana is significant: police officers at the 10th percentile earn $36,764, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $96,460 — a $59,696 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in Louisiana for this role is New Orleans, where the median reaches $64,474.
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 Louisiana by Experience
In Louisiana, an entry-level police officer earns around $38,220, while experienced professionals earn up to $89,180 per year. The cost of living index in Louisiana is 91% of the national average.
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Check Your Rate — No Credit Impact →Salary Percentiles in Louisiana
| Percentile | LA Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $36,764 |
| 25th Percentile | $46,592 |
| Median (50th) | $59,869 |
| 75th Percentile | $79,352 |
| 90th Percentile | $96,460 |
Police Officer Salary by City in Louisiana
The largest employment areas for police officers in Louisiana include New Orleans, Baton Rouge, Shreveport, and Lafayette. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.
How to Become a Police Officer in Louisiana
Education
Most police officer positions require a high school diploma. Louisiana has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Louisiana
Nationally, police officer employment is projected to grow 3% over the next decade (as fast as average). Louisiana's demand may vary based on local industry trends.
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