As of December 2024, the average annual pay for a police officer in Tennessee is approximately $56,407. This figure provides a general understanding of earnings for law enforcement professionals across the state.
Salary Breakdown for Police Officers in Tennessee
This annual salary can be broken down into various timeframes, offering a clearer picture of earnings on a more frequent basis. For a police officer in Tennessee, the approximate earnings are:
- Hourly: $27.12
- Weekly: $1,084
- Monthly: $4,700
Below is a summary of the average police officer salary in Tennessee by pay period:
| Pay Period | Average Salary (as of Dec 2024) |
|---|---|
| Annually | $56,407 |
| Monthly | $4,700 |
| Weekly | $1,084 |
| Hourly | $27.12 |
Factors Influencing Police Officer Salaries
While the average provides a good baseline, several factors can significantly influence an individual police officer's salary in Tennessee. These include:
- Experience Level: Entry-level officers typically start at a lower pay scale, with salaries increasing substantially with years of service and experience. Many departments have a pay progression system that rewards tenure.
- Location within Tennessee: Salaries can vary by city or county. Larger metropolitan areas like Nashville, Memphis, Knoxville, or Chattanooga often offer higher pay rates compared to smaller towns or rural areas, primarily due to the higher cost of living and increased demand for law enforcement services.
- Type of Agency: The employing agency (municipal police department, county sheriff's office, state highway patrol, or specialized state agencies like the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation) can impact salary. State agencies might have different pay structures and benefits compared to local departments.
- Specialized Roles and Education: Officers who take on specialized roles (e.g., K9 handler, detective, SWAT team member, training officer) or those with higher education degrees (Associate's, Bachelor's, or Master's) may qualify for higher pay grades or incentives.
- Overtime and Benefits: The total compensation package for police officers often includes opportunities for overtime pay, which can significantly boost annual earnings. Additionally, comprehensive benefits packages (health insurance, retirement plans, paid time off) are a crucial part of an officer's overall compensation.
For broader information on law enforcement salaries, the Bureau of Labor Statistics provides detailed occupational wage data across various states and industries, including for Police and Sheriff's Patrol Officers in Tennessee.
