Correctional Officer Salary (2025)
Correctional officers supervise inmates in jails and prisons.
The median Correctional Officer salary is $49,610 per year ($24/hour). Entry-level Correctional Officers earn around $35,000 while experienced Correctional Officers earn $72,000 or more annually.
Salary variation for Correctional Officers is influenced by experience, location, and specialized roles. Officers with advanced training or those in high-security facilities often earn higher wages, with senior officers averaging $72,000. Regions with higher costs of living, such as California and New York, typically offer salaries above the national median of $49,610.
AI-generated insight based on BLS data · For reference only
Salary Range
Median: $49,610 — positioned between entry and senior
Top Paying States for Correctional Officers
| State | Est. Annual Salary | vs. National |
|---|---|---|
| Hawaii | $70,000 | +41% |
| California | $68,000 | +37% |
| New York | $64,000 | +29% |
| Alaska | $62,000 | +25% |
| Massachusetts | $62,000 | +25% |
| New Jersey | $60,000 | +21% |
| Connecticut | $59,000 | +19% |
| Washington | $57,000 | +15% |
Estimates based on cost-of-living index adjustments. Actual salaries vary by employer and experience.
How to Become a Correctional Officer
Most Correctional Officer positions require: High school diploma + training. Salaries typically increase significantly with experience and specialization.
Correctional Officer Salary by State
Related Careers in Public Safety
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average Correctional Officer salary?
The median Correctional Officer salary is $49,610 per year, which works out to approximately $24/hour based on a 40-hour work week.
How much does an entry-level Correctional Officer make?
Entry-level Correctional Officers typically earn around $35,000 per year. Salaries grow significantly with experience and specialization.
What is a senior Correctional Officer's salary?
Experienced Correctional Officers can earn up to $72,000 or more annually depending on location, employer, and specialization.
What education is required to become a Correctional Officer?
Most Correctional Officer positions require: High school diploma + training.