Police Officer Salary in Massachusetts
The median police officer salary in Massachusetts is $88,817 per year, which is 35.0% above the national median of $65,790.
Police Officer Salary Overview in Massachusetts (2026)
Massachusetts ranks #3 out of 50 states for police officer compensation. This places Massachusetts in the top tier nationally, making it one of the best states for police officers seeking high pay. At $88,817 per year, police officers in Massachusetts earn $23,027 more than the national median of $65,790.
It's worth noting that Massachusetts's cost of living is 135% of the national average, which reduces the real purchasing power of the $88,817 salary. After adjusting for cost of living, the effective salary is closer to $65,790.
The salary spread in Massachusetts is significant: police officers at the 10th percentile earn $54,540, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $143,100 — a $88,560 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in Massachusetts for this role is Cambridge, where the median reaches $105,264.
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 Massachusetts by Experience
In Massachusetts, an entry-level police officer earns around $56,700, while experienced professionals earn up to $132,300 per year. The cost of living index in Massachusetts is 135% of the national average.
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See Investment Options →Salary Percentiles in Massachusetts
| Percentile | MA Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $54,540 |
| 25th Percentile | $69,120 |
| Median (50th) | $88,817 |
| 75th Percentile | $117,720 |
| 90th Percentile | $143,100 |
Police Officer Salary by City in Massachusetts
The largest employment areas for police officers in Massachusetts include Boston, Worcester, Springfield, and Cambridge. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.
How to Become a Police Officer in Massachusetts
Education
Most police officer positions require a high school diploma. Massachusetts has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Massachusetts
Nationally, police officer employment is projected to grow 3% over the next decade (as fast as average). Massachusetts'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 $43,483 over your career trajectory.
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