Public Service South Carolina (SC) Rank #40 of 50

Police Officer Salary in South Carolina

The median police officer salary in South Carolina is $58,553 per year, which is 11% below the national median of $65,790.

Median Salary
$58,553
vs National
$-7,237
State Rank
#40 of 50
Cost of Living
89%

Police Officer Salary in South Carolina by Experience

In South Carolina, an entry-level police officer earns around $37,380, while experienced professionals earn up to $87,220 per year. The cost of living index in South Carolina is 89% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$37,380
$-4,620 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$58,740
$-7,260 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$87,220
$-10,780 vs national

Salary Percentiles in South Carolina

Percentile SC Salary
10th Percentile $35,956
25th Percentile $45,568
Median (50th) $58,553
75th Percentile $77,608
90th Percentile $94,340

Major Cities for Police Officers in South Carolina

The largest employment areas for police officers in South Carolina include Charleston, Columbia, Greenville, and North Charleston. Salaries in major metro areas may be higher due to increased demand and cost of living.

Charleston, SC
Metro area for police officer employment
Columbia, SC
Metro area for police officer employment
Greenville, SC
Metro area for police officer employment
North Charleston, SC
Metro area for police officer employment
Mount Pleasant, SC
Metro area for police officer employment

How to Become a Police Officer in South Carolina

Education

Most police officer positions require a high school diploma. South Carolina has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.

Key Skills

Law EnforcementEmergency ResponseReport WritingDe-escalationPhysical FitnessCommunity Policing

Job Outlook in South Carolina

Nationally, police officer employment is projected to grow 3% over the next decade (as fast as average). South Carolina's demand may vary based on local industry trends.