Police Officer Salary in Wisconsin
The median police officer salary in Wisconsin is $60,527 per year, which is 8% below the national median of $65,790.
Police Officer Salary Overview in Wisconsin (2026)
Wisconsin ranks #31 out of 50 states for police officer compensation. Police Officer salaries in Wisconsin are below the national median, though the lower cost of living can offset the difference. At $60,527 per year, police officers in Wisconsin earn $5,263 less than the national median of $65,790.
A key advantage of working in Wisconsin is its below-average cost of living (92% of the national index). This means the $60,527 salary has the purchasing power of roughly $65,790 in an average-cost area.
The salary spread in Wisconsin is significant: police officers at the 10th percentile earn $37,168, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $97,520 — a $60,352 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in Wisconsin for this role is Madison, where the median reaches $65,790.
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 Wisconsin by Experience
In Wisconsin, an entry-level police officer earns around $38,640, while experienced professionals earn up to $90,160 per year. The cost of living index in Wisconsin is 92% of the national average.
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| Percentile | WI Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $37,168 |
| 25th Percentile | $47,104 |
| Median (50th) | $60,527 |
| 75th Percentile | $80,224 |
| 90th Percentile | $97,520 |
Police Officer Salary by City in Wisconsin
The largest employment areas for police officers in Wisconsin include Milwaukee, Madison, Green Bay, and Kenosha. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.
How to Become a Police Officer in Wisconsin
Education
Most police officer positions require a high school diploma. Wisconsin has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Wisconsin
Nationally, police officer employment is projected to grow 3% over the next decade (as fast as average). Wisconsin's demand may vary based on local industry trends.
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