If you are looking for a correctional officer salary in the USA, the pay can be quite different depending on the state, type of correctional facility, experience, and employer. In 2025, the median correctional officer and jailer salary was about $58,940 a year, or around $28.34 per hour. Some correctional officers earn below $43,000, while experienced workers and higher-paid positions can go above $90,000 a year. This guide looks at correctional officer salary, correctional officer pay per hour, monthly income, salary by state, starting pay, benefits, job requirements and other important details for people who are thinking about this career.
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Correctional Officer Salary in the USA
A correctional officer works inside prisons, jails and other correctional facilities to maintain safety and order. The job is not only about watching inmates. Officers may search people and areas, monitor movements, respond to incidents, write reports and make sure facility rules are followed. Some officers may also escort prisoners when they are moved between a jail, prison, court or another location.
The correctional officer salary in the USA is around $58,940 at the median level according to May 2025 wage data. The hourly median is about $28.34. But this is not a fixed salary for every officer. A new correctional officer may start much lower, while an experienced officer working for a state or federal agency may earn considerably more. Overtime, night shifts, weekends and other pay can also increase the actual yearly income.
Correctional officers normally work full time and correctional facilities need staff around the clock. Because of this, officers can have day, evening or overnight shifts. Weekend and holiday work can also be part of the job. In some facilities, overtime is available when staffing is short or when extra security is needed.
Correctional Officer Salary by State
The state where a correctional officer works can make a big difference in salary. Based on May 2025 wage data, California, New Jersey, Massachusetts, Oregon, Washington and Illinois are among the states with some of the higher median pay levels for correctional officers and jailers. Mississippi, Louisiana and Arkansas are among the states with lower reported median wages.
The table below shows the median annual correctional officer salary by state. These figures are useful for comparing the general pay level between states, but actual job offers can be different based on the agency, facility, experience, overtime and local cost of living.
| State | Salary Amount |
|---|---|
| Alabama | $46,660 |
| Alaska | $71,360 |
| Arizona | $54,970 |
| Arkansas | $40,330 |
| California | $96,370 |
| Colorado | $62,140 |
| Connecticut | $64,750 |
| Delaware | $65,880 |
| Florida | $49,710 |
| Georgia | $47,520 |
| Hawaii | $69,570 |
| Idaho | $53,580 |
| Illinois | $79,190 |
| Indiana | $48,340 |
| Iowa | $53,040 |
| Kansas | $56,120 |
| Kentucky | $42,310 |
| Louisiana | $39,850 |
| Maine | $52,730 |
| Maryland | $64,250 |
| Massachusetts | $86,310 |
| Michigan | $64,020 |
| Minnesota | $66,040 |
| Mississippi | $38,720 |
| Missouri | $42,620 |
| Montana | $49,180 |
| Nebraska | $63,380 |
| Nevada | $76,490 |
| New Hampshire | $61,360 |
| New Jersey | $94,770 |
| New Mexico | $47,940 |
| New York | $76,820 |
| North Carolina | $50,550 |
| North Dakota | $52,460 |
| Ohio | $59,370 |
| Oklahoma | $45,690 |
| Oregon | $83,690 |
| Pennsylvania | $63,460 |
| Rhode Island | Not Available |
| South Carolina | $47,890 |
| South Dakota | $53,040 |
| Tennessee | $50,940 |
| Texas | $52,670 |
| Utah | $67,290 |
| Vermont | $53,810 |
| Virginia | $50,140 |
| Washington | $79,460 |
| West Virginia | $52,890 |
| Wisconsin | $73,470 |
| Wyoming | $54,780 |
Note: Salary amounts in the state table are median annual wages for correctional officers and jailers based on May 2025 wage information. Rhode Island is shown as Not Available because a usable May 2025 state median was not reported in the current wage data.
Correctional Officer Salary in Alabama
The median correctional officer salary in Alabama is about $46,660 a year. Alabama is below the national median for this occupation, but the actual salary can be different depending on whether the officer works for a state prison, county jail or another correctional agency. Starting officers normally earn less than experienced workers.
For someone searching for a correctional officer job in Alabama, salary is only one part of the total package. Government jobs may also include health insurance, retirement benefits, paid time off and other employment benefits. Overtime can also make a difference in yearly income.
- Median annual salary: about $46,660
- Correctional officer jobs may be available in state and local facilities
- Experience can increase earning potential
- Shift work and overtime may add to total pay
Correctional Officer Salary in Alaska
Alaska has a much higher median correctional officer salary than many states. The 2025 median wage is about $71,360 per year. The higher pay can partly reflect the state's labor market and the cost of living in many areas. Correctional officers may work in state facilities as well as other correctional settings.
Working as a correctional officer in Alaska can also mean dealing with different weather and location conditions. People looking at jobs in the state should compare the salary with housing and other daily costs before deciding that a higher salary automatically means more money left over.
Correctional Officer Salary in Arizona
The median correctional officer salary in Arizona is around $54,970 per year. This puts Arizona somewhat below the national median for correctional officers and jailers. Salary can vary by employer, location and level of experience.
Arizona has a large correctional system, and officers may work in different types of facilities. A new officer should look at the complete pay scale instead of only the starting salary because regular step increases and overtime can change total annual earnings.
Correctional Officer Salary in Arkansas
Correctional officers in Arkansas have a median annual salary of about $40,330. This is one of the lower state salary levels in the country for this occupation. Even with a lower base salary, correctional work can offer steady employment and government benefits depending on the employer.
The starting correctional officer salary can be lower than the median because the median includes workers with different levels of experience. Employees who stay in the system for several years may move through pay steps and become eligible for additional responsibilities or overtime.
Correctional Officer Salary in California
California is one of the highest-paying states for correctional officers. The 2025 median annual wage is about $96,370, which is well above the national median of $58,940. This makes California an important state for people searching for the highest correctional officer salary in the USA.
However, California also has a high cost of living in many areas. A salary close to $100,000 may sound very high, but housing and other expenses can be much higher than in lower-cost states. Officers should look at both salary and local living costs when comparing jobs.
- Median annual salary: about $96,370
- One of the highest-paying states for correctional officers
- Government employment can include retirement and health benefits
- Overtime may increase yearly income
Correctional Officer Salary in Colorado
Colorado has a median correctional officer salary of about $62,140 per year. This is above the national median for correctional officers and jailers. Salary can vary between state and local employers, and officers with more experience may have better earning opportunities.
Colorado correctional officers may work different shifts because prisons and jails need security throughout the day and night. Night, weekend and overtime work may provide additional earnings when offered by the employer.
Correctional Officer Salary in Connecticut
The median correctional officer salary in Connecticut is around $64,750 per year. This is higher than the national median. Connecticut officers can work in state correctional facilities, where pay may follow a structured government salary system.
When comparing a correctional officer salary in Connecticut with another state, workers should also consider taxes, housing costs, retirement plans and healthcare benefits. The highest salary is not always the same as the highest overall financial benefit.
Correctional Officer Salary in Delaware
Delaware reports a median correctional officer salary of about $65,880 a year. The state is above the national median for this occupation. Because Delaware is a small state, job availability can depend strongly on the specific correctional agency and facility.
A person starting a correctional officer career in Delaware should check the current hiring requirements, training process and starting pay before applying. The median wage is not the same thing as starting salary, so new applicants should not expect to receive the median immediately.
Correctional Officer Salary in Florida
The median correctional officer salary in Florida is about $49,710 per year. Florida is below the national median, although individual jobs can pay more or less depending on the facility and experience.
Florida can be an attractive location for people who want a large job market and a career in corrections. Correctional officers should still compare the base salary with overtime opportunities, benefits and the cost of living in the particular city or county.
Correctional Officer Salary in Georgia
Georgia has a median correctional officer salary of around $47,520 per year. This is below the U.S. median. New correctional officers generally start below the median and can increase their income through experience, promotions and overtime where available.
The work can be demanding because officers have to maintain order while also following strict facility procedures. Good communication, alertness and the ability to stay calm during difficult situations are important for the job.
Correctional Officer Salary in Hawaii
Hawaii has a median correctional officer salary of about $69,570 per year. This is higher than the national median. Like other jobs in Hawaii, however, salary should be viewed together with the state's relatively high housing and living costs.
Correctional officers in Hawaii may work in secure facilities where staffing is required during all hours. Shift work can include nights, weekends and holidays. The overall compensation package can be important when comparing correctional officer jobs in Hawaii.
Correctional Officer Salary in Idaho
The median correctional officer salary in Idaho is around $53,580 per year. This is somewhat lower than the national median salary for correctional officers and jailers. Pay can be different for state correctional facilities, county jails and other employers.
For people starting a correctional officer career in Idaho, the starting pay may be lower than the median wage. With more years of service, employees may move to higher pay levels and can sometimes earn additional money through overtime, shift work or extra assignments.
- Median annual salary: about $53,580
- Pay can increase with experience
- Overtime may add to yearly income
- Government jobs may offer retirement and health benefits
Correctional Officer Salary in Illinois
Illinois is one of the higher-paying states for correctional officers, with a median annual salary of about $79,190. This is considerably above the national median correctional officer salary. The actual salary depends on the correctional agency, location and the officer's experience.
A correctional officer working in Illinois may also have access to government employee benefits. Retirement plans, health insurance, paid leave and overtime can make the total compensation higher than the basic salary shown in a job advertisement.
Correctional Officer Salary in Indiana
The median correctional officer salary in Indiana is around $48,340 per year. Indiana's median is below the national level, but the cost of living in many parts of the state can also be lower than in some of the highest-paying states.
New correctional officers should look at the full pay scale when comparing jobs. Starting salary is normally not the same as the median salary because the median includes workers at different experience levels.
Correctional Officer Salary in Iowa
Iowa correctional officers have a median annual salary of about $53,040. The salary is below the national median, although experienced officers can earn more depending on their employer, position and overtime.
Correctional facilities need staff during the day and night, so officers can be assigned to different shifts. Working nights, weekends or holidays may be part of the job and some facilities may provide additional pay for certain shifts.
Correctional Officer Salary in Kansas
The median correctional officer salary in Kansas is approximately $56,120 per year. This is close to, but still below, the national median of $58,940. Salary levels can vary between state correctional facilities and local jail systems.
For someone looking at correctional officer jobs in Kansas, the benefits package is also worth checking. A government position may provide health coverage, retirement benefits and paid leave in addition to the basic wage.
Correctional Officer Salary in Kentucky
Kentucky has a median correctional officer salary of about $42,310 a year. This is lower than the national median. Entry-level officers can earn less than this amount before gaining experience and moving through the employer's pay structure.
The job itself requires officers to remain alert and follow security procedures. Working inside a correctional facility can be stressful, so employers generally provide academy or facility training before an officer works independently.
- Median annual salary: about $42,310
- Entry-level pay can be lower
- Experience can improve earning potential
- Shift work is common in correctional facilities
Correctional Officer Salary in Louisiana
The median correctional officer salary in Louisiana is around $39,850 per year. This is among the lower salary levels for the occupation in the United States. However, the salary for a particular correctional officer can be different depending on the agency and facility.
Louisiana correctional officers may work in state prisons or local correctional facilities. When comparing jobs, applicants should check the starting salary, scheduled pay increases, overtime rules and benefits instead of looking only at the median figure.
Correctional Officer Salary in Maine
Maine has a median correctional officer salary of about $52,730 per year. The state's median wage is below the national correctional officer salary, but individual jobs may pay more depending on experience and employer.
Correctional officers in Maine can work different shifts because correctional facilities need security throughout the day and night. Weekend and holiday work can also be required as part of the normal schedule.
Correctional Officer Salary in Maryland
The median correctional officer salary in Maryland is around $64,250 per year. This is above the national median of $58,940. Maryland can therefore be a better-paying state for people interested in correctional officer careers.
The total income can be higher than the basic annual wage when an officer receives overtime or other eligible payments. Government benefits may also be an important part of the overall compensation package.
Correctional Officer Salary in Massachusetts
Massachusetts has one of the higher correctional officer salary levels in the country. The median annual wage is about $86,310. This is well above the national median and makes Massachusetts an attractive state for people comparing correctional officer pay by state.
At the same time, Massachusetts has relatively high living costs in many locations. A person comparing this salary with a lower-paying state should consider housing, taxes, transportation and other regular expenses along with the salary.
- Median annual salary: about $86,310
- Above the national median
- Experience and position can affect actual pay
- Benefits can add significant value to government employment
Correctional Officer Salary in Michigan
The median correctional officer salary in Michigan is about $64,020 per year. This is higher than the national median for correctional officers and jailers. The exact pay can depend on whether an officer works for a state, county or another correctional organization.
Michigan correctional officers can work around the clock because prisons and jails require continuous security. This means an officer may work nights, weekends and holidays depending on the assigned schedule.
Correctional Officer Salary in Minnesota
Minnesota has a median correctional officer salary of around $66,040 per year. This is above the national median. Officers with more experience or additional responsibilities may have higher earnings than the median amount.
When looking for a correctional officer job in Minnesota, applicants should compare the complete compensation package. Health insurance, retirement, paid time off and overtime can make the actual value of a government job higher than the base salary.
Correctional Officer Salary in Mississippi
The median correctional officer salary in Mississippi is approximately $38,720 per year. This is one of the lower reported state median wages for correctional officers and jailers.
A new officer may start below the median, while experienced employees may earn more through regular pay increases, promotions or overtime. The local cost of living should also be considered when comparing Mississippi with higher-paying states.
Correctional Officer Salary in Missouri
Missouri reports a median correctional officer salary of about $42,620 per year. The state's wage is below the U.S. median. However, correctional officers may receive benefits and other compensation that are not included in the basic annual salary.
The work involves maintaining security, watching inmate activity, checking areas and responding when there is a problem. Officers also have to complete reports and follow facility rules carefully.
Correctional Officer Salary in Montana
The median correctional officer salary in Montana is around $49,180 per year. This is below the national median. Pay can vary based on the correctional facility, location and the employee's level of experience.
Montana officers can work in secure correctional facilities where staffing is required at all times. As with other states, night and weekend shifts can be part of the normal work schedule.
Correctional Officer Salary in Nebraska
Nebraska has a median correctional officer salary of approximately $63,380 per year. This is above the national median salary for correctional officers and jailers.
The salary can increase as an officer gains experience or moves into positions with additional responsibilities. Overtime may also provide an opportunity for some officers to increase their yearly income.
Correctional Officer Salary in Nevada
The median correctional officer salary in Nevada is about $76,490 per year. Nevada is therefore among the better-paying states for this occupation. The actual salary can be different depending on the correctional agency and work location.
People considering correctional officer jobs in Nevada should also compare housing and other living expenses. A higher salary can be useful, but the amount of money left after normal expenses is also important when choosing a state.
Correctional Officer Salary in New Hampshire
New Hampshire has a median correctional officer salary of about $61,360 per year. This is slightly above the national median. Experienced officers may earn more depending on their employer, seniority and available overtime.
The job normally requires officers to follow strict security procedures while working with inmates. Good communication, patience and the ability to stay calm are useful qualities for this type of work.
Correctional Officer Salary in New Jersey
New Jersey is one of the highest-paying states for correctional officers. The median annual salary is about $94,770, which is far above the national median of $58,940. This makes New Jersey one of the states worth looking at when searching for the highest correctional officer salary in the USA.
The high salary should still be compared with New Jersey's cost of living. Housing, transportation, taxes and other expenses can be considerably different from states with lower correctional officer wages. Government benefits and retirement plans can also be an important part of the total compensation.
- Median annual salary: about $94,770
- One of the highest-paying states for correctional officers
- Experienced officers may earn more than the median
- Overtime can increase total annual income
- Benefits may include health coverage and retirement options
Correctional Officer Salary in New Mexico
The median correctional officer salary in New Mexico is around $47,940 per year. This is below the national median for correctional officers and jailers. The actual salary can change based on the correctional agency, experience, location and work schedule.
New correctional officers may start at a lower salary before moving through the pay scale. Working additional shifts or overtime, when available, can also increase yearly income. Officers should check the complete compensation package before accepting a job.
Correctional Officer Salary in New York
New York is one of the higher-paying states for correctional officers, with a median annual salary of about $76,820. This is significantly higher than the national median correctional officer salary of $58,940.
Correctional officers in New York may work in state prisons or other correctional facilities. Experience, job classification and overtime can affect total earnings. Because living costs vary widely across New York, applicants should compare salary with the local cost of living.
- Median annual salary: about $76,820
- Higher than the national median
- Overtime can increase total yearly pay
- Government employment may include retirement benefits
Correctional Officer Salary in North Carolina
The median correctional officer salary in North Carolina is approximately $50,550 per year. This is below the national median but can still provide a stable career for people interested in correctional services.
Starting correctional officer pay is normally lower than the median because the median includes employees with different experience levels. Officers may increase their income through years of service, promotions and overtime depending on the employer.
Correctional Officer Salary in North Dakota
North Dakota has a median correctional officer salary of about $52,460 per year. The state's median is below the U.S. median wage for correctional officers and jailers.
Correctional facilities operate throughout the year, so officers can be required to work different shifts. Nights, weekends and holidays may be included in the schedule. Some employers may also provide additional compensation for certain shifts or overtime.
Correctional Officer Salary in Ohio
The median correctional officer salary in Ohio is around $59,370 per year. This is very close to the national median salary of $58,940. Actual pay can vary between state prisons, county jails and other correctional employers.
Ohio correctional officers are responsible for maintaining security and order inside correctional facilities. The job also includes checking inmates, monitoring activities, writing reports and responding to incidents when required.
Correctional Officer Salary in Oklahoma
The median correctional officer salary in Oklahoma is about $45,690 per year. This is below the national median. A new correctional officer may receive a lower starting salary, while experienced employees may move into higher pay levels.
Overtime can be an important factor in correctional officer pay because facilities require staff at all hours. However, overtime availability is different from one employer to another, so it should not be treated as guaranteed income.
Correctional Officer Salary in Oregon
Oregon has one of the higher correctional officer salary levels in the United States. The median annual wage is around $83,690, which is well above the national median.
The higher correctional officer pay in Oregon can make the occupation attractive to people comparing salaries by state. Still, Oregon has different living costs depending on the city and region. Housing and everyday expenses should be considered along with salary.
- Median annual salary: about $83,690
- Above the national median
- Experience may increase pay
- Overtime can add to annual income
- Benefits can be an important part of total compensation
Correctional Officer Salary in Pennsylvania
The median correctional officer salary in Pennsylvania is approximately $63,460 per year. This is above the national median for correctional officers and jailers.
Pennsylvania correctional officers can work in state prisons, county facilities and other correctional environments. Pay may increase with experience and additional responsibilities. Shift work is common because correctional facilities need continuous security.
Correctional Officer Salary in Rhode Island
A usable May 2025 median state wage for correctional officers and jailers is not available for Rhode Island in the current state wage data used for this article. Because of this, it is better not to guess a salary number.
People searching for correctional officer jobs in Rhode Island should check current job postings and the state's official correctional agency for starting pay, pay increases and benefits. The salary offered for a particular position can be more useful than using an estimate based on another state.
Correctional Officer Salary in South Carolina
The median correctional officer salary in South Carolina is around $47,890 per year. This is below the national median. Salary can vary depending on the correctional facility, employer and experience.
New officers should pay attention to the complete salary schedule rather than only the starting wage. Government correctional jobs can include health insurance, retirement benefits, paid leave and other benefits that add value to the position.
Correctional Officer Salary in South Dakota
South Dakota has a median correctional officer salary of about $53,040 per year. This is somewhat below the national median wage.
The actual correctional officer pay can be higher for experienced workers or employees who receive overtime. As with other states, the work may involve rotating shifts because prisons and jails need security 24 hours a day.
Correctional Officer Salary in Tennessee
The median correctional officer salary in Tennessee is approximately $50,940 per year. Tennessee's median is below the national figure, although individual jobs can offer different starting wages and benefits.
Correctional officers need to follow security rules carefully and remain alert during their shifts. Officers may also search areas, monitor inmate activity, escort inmates and prepare written reports.
Correctional Officer Salary in Texas
The median correctional officer salary in Texas is around $52,670 per year. Texas has a large correctional system, which means there are many types of correctional jobs across the state.
The starting correctional officer salary can be lower than the state median. Over time, experience, promotions, overtime and additional responsibilities may increase total earnings. Applicants should also check whether the position includes health insurance, retirement and paid leave.
- Median annual salary: about $52,670
- Large correctional employment system
- Starting pay may be lower than the median
- Overtime can increase total compensation
Correctional Officer Salary in Utah
Utah has a median correctional officer salary of approximately $67,290 per year. This is above the national median and puts Utah among the better-paying states for this occupation.
Actual correctional officer pay depends on the facility and employer. Officers with more experience may earn higher wages, and overtime or special assignments can increase yearly income when available.
Correctional Officer Salary in Vermont
The median correctional officer salary in Vermont is about $53,810 per year. This is below the national median for correctional officers and jailers.
Vermont correctional officers may work in facilities where security is required around the clock. The job can include monitoring inmates, conducting searches, responding to emergencies and keeping detailed records.
Correctional Officer Salary in Virginia
The median correctional officer salary in Virginia is approximately $50,140 per year. This is below the national median. The salary for a particular officer can be different based on experience, facility and employer.
Virginia correctional officer jobs can offer more than just the base wage. Applicants should look at retirement plans, healthcare, paid leave, overtime rules and possible salary increases when comparing positions.
Correctional Officer Salary in Washington
Washington is one of the higher-paying states for correctional officers. The median annual salary is around $79,460, which is substantially higher than the national median.
The higher salary can make Washington attractive for correctional officers looking for better pay. But living costs vary across the state, especially around larger metropolitan areas, so the salary should be compared with local housing and other expenses.
- Median annual salary: about $79,460
- Higher than the national median
- Experience can improve earning potential
- Overtime may increase yearly pay
- Government benefits can add to total compensation
Correctional Officer Salary in West Virginia
The median correctional officer salary in West Virginia is about $52,890 per year. This is below the national median but provides a potential stable career path for people interested in corrections and public safety.
Officers may work rotating schedules and can be assigned nights, weekends or holidays. The physical and mental demands of the job mean that applicants should understand the actual duties before choosing this career.
Correctional Officer Salary in Wisconsin
Wisconsin has a median correctional officer salary of approximately $73,470 per year. This is considerably above the national median and makes Wisconsin one of the stronger states for correctional officer pay.
The total yearly income can vary based on seniority, overtime and job assignment. Officers should also compare the retirement and healthcare benefits available through the employer because these can be a significant part of the total compensation.
Correctional Officer Salary in Wyoming
The median correctional officer salary in Wyoming is around $54,780 per year. This is slightly below the national median salary for correctional officers and jailers.
Wyoming correctional officers can work in secure facilities where staff are needed throughout the day and night. The final income can depend on experience, overtime, shift schedules and the particular employer.
How Much Does a Correctional Officer Make a Year?
Across the United States, the median correctional officer and jailer earns about $58,940 per year. But this number should not be treated as a guaranteed salary for every officer. New workers usually start lower, while experienced officers, supervisors or employees with overtime can earn much more.
The highest-paying states can have median wages close to or above $80,000, while some states report median wages below $45,000. This large difference shows why location is one of the most important factors when checking correctional officer salary.
Correctional Officer Salary Per Hour
The median correctional officer salary per hour is about $28.34 based on the 2025 national wage data. Hourly pay can be lower for new employees and higher for experienced workers. Overtime is normally paid separately according to the employer's rules and applicable law.
For a full-time worker, an hourly wage is useful for understanding the basic salary, but the actual annual income can change because correctional officers may work different numbers of hours, shifts and overtime periods during the year.
Correctional Officer Salary Per Month
A $58,940 median annual salary works out to roughly $4,912 per month before taxes when divided across 12 months. This is only a simple monthly equivalent and does not mean that every correctional officer receives the same monthly paycheck.
Actual take-home pay will be lower after federal and state taxes, Social Security, Medicare, retirement contributions, insurance and other deductions. Officers who work overtime may have a higher gross monthly income.
Highest Paying States for Correctional Officers
Some states stand out when comparing correctional officer salary by state. California and New Jersey are near the top of the state median figures used in this article, while Massachusetts, Oregon, Washington and Illinois also report relatively high median wages.
However, choosing a state only because it has a high salary is not always the best approach. A correctional officer should also consider living costs, taxes, job availability, retirement benefits and the amount of overtime available.
- California — about $96,370 median annual salary
- New Jersey — about $94,770
- Massachusetts — about $86,310
- Oregon — about $83,690
- Washington — about $79,460
- Illinois — about $79,190
- New York — about $76,820
- Nevada — about $76,490