Public Service New Jersey (NJ) Rank #6 of 50

Probation Officer Salary in New Jersey

The median probation officer salary in New Jersey is $69,288 per year, which is 15.0% above the national median of $60,250.

Median Salary
$69,288
vs National
+$9,038
State Rank
#6 of 50
Cost of Living
115%

Probation Officer Salary Overview in New Jersey (2026)

New Jersey ranks #6 out of 50 states for probation officer compensation. This places New Jersey in the top tier nationally, making it one of the best states for probation officers seeking high pay. At $69,288 per year, probation officers in New Jersey earn $9,038 more than the national median of $60,250.

It's worth noting that New Jersey's cost of living is 115% of the national average, which reduces the real purchasing power of the $69,288 salary. After adjusting for cost of living, the effective salary is closer to $60,250.

The salary spread in New Jersey is significant: probation officers at the 10th percentile earn $43,700, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $105,800 — a $62,100 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in New Jersey for this role is Jersey City, where the median reaches $77,120.

Nationally, probation officer employment is projected to grow 3% over the next decade (as fast as average). This steady growth indicates stable demand for probation officers across the country.

Probation Officer Salary in New Jersey by Experience

In New Jersey, an entry-level probation officer earns around $46,000, while experienced professionals earn up to $101,200 per year. The cost of living index in New Jersey is 115% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$46,000
+$6,000 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$71,300
+$9,300 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$101,200
+$13,200 vs national

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Salary Percentiles in New Jersey

Percentile NJ Salary
10th Percentile $43,700
25th Percentile $55,200
Median (50th) $69,288
75th Percentile $87,400
90th Percentile $105,800

Probation Officer Salary by City in New Jersey

The largest employment areas for probation officers in New Jersey include Newark, Jersey City, Paterson, and Elizabeth. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.

How to Become a Probation Officer in New Jersey

Education

Most probation officer positions require a bachelor's degree. New Jersey has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.

Key Skills

Case ManagementRisk AssessmentReport WritingCommunicationCrisis InterventionLegal Knowledge

Job Outlook in New Jersey

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

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Frequently Asked Questions: Probation Officer Salary in New Jersey

How much does a Probation Officer make in New Jersey? ▼
The median probation officer salary in New Jersey is $69,288 per year, which is 15.0% above the national median of $60,250. Salaries range from $43,700 (10th percentile) to $105,800 (90th percentile).
How much does a Probation Officer make per hour in New Jersey? ▼
Based on the median annual salary of $69,288, a probation officer in New Jersey earns approximately $33 per hour assuming a standard 2,080-hour work year.
Is New Jersey a good state for probation officers? ▼
New Jersey ranks #6 out of 50 states for probation officer pay. The cost of living index is 115% of the national average. Entry-level probation officers earn $46,000, while senior professionals earn $101,200.
How does New Jersey compare to other states for probation officer salary? ▼
The highest paying state for probation officers is Hawaii at $102,425. New Jersey's median of $69,288 ranks #6 nationally. Nearby-ranked states include Alaska ($74,710) and New York ($73,505).
What is the entry-level probation officer salary in New Jersey? ▼
An entry-level probation officer in New Jersey earns approximately $46,000 per year. With 3-7 years of experience, pay increases to around $71,300. Senior-level professionals with 8+ years earn up to $101,200.
What city in New Jersey pays probation officers the most? ▼
Jersey City is the highest paying city in New Jersey for probation officers, with a median salary of $77,120. Other cities include Newark and Paterson.