Police Officer Salary in Paterson, New Jersey
The median police officer salary in Paterson, NJ is $69,080 per year, which is 5.0% above the national median and 8.7% below the New Jersey state average.
Police Officer Pay in Paterson: What to Expect (2026)
Paterson offers a median police officer salary of $69,080, which is $6,579 below the New Jersey state average of $75,659. Compared to the national median of $65,790, Paterson pays above average for this role.
Paterson's cost of living is 105% 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 Paterson spans from $42,420 at the 10th percentile to $111,300 at the 90th percentile — a $68,880 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $44,100, while senior police officers with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $102,900. With a population of 159,732, Paterson is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.
Police Officer Salary in Paterson by Experience
In Paterson, an entry-level police officer earns around $44,100, while experienced professionals earn up to $102,900 per year. The local cost of living index is 105% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Paterson, NJ
| Percentile | Paterson |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $42,420 |
| 25th Percentile | $53,760 |
| Median (50th) | $69,080 |
| 75th Percentile | $91,560 |
| 90th Percentile | $111,300 |
Police Officer Salary in Other New Jersey Cities
How to Become a Police Officer in Paterson
Education
Most police officer positions require a high school diploma. Paterson and the surrounding New Jersey 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 Paterson may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Police Officer Jobs in Paterson
Browse open police officer positions in Paterson, NJ: