Finance, manufacturing, healthcare — Midwest's premier hub. Here's how Police Officers in Chicago get paid in 2026.
How pay scales with career stage in the Chicago metro market.
| Experience | Median 2026 | 25th % | 75th % |
|---|---|---|---|
| Entry (0–1 yr) | $65,400 | $49,700 | $85,000 |
| Junior (2–4 yrs) | $81,300 | $61,700 | $105,700 |
| Mid-Level (5–9 yrs) | $93,500 | $71,000 | $121,500 |
| Senior (10–14 yrs) | $112,200 | $85,200 | $145,800 |
| Veteran (15+ yrs) | $127,100 | $96,500 | $165,200 |
Highest-paying metros for Police Officers — useful if you're weighing a relocation.
Top occupations by median pay across the Chicago metro economy.
The average Police Officer salary in the Chicago metro is $93,500 per year as of 2026, with a typical range of $71,000 to $121,500 (25th–75th percentile). Top earners (90th percentile) make $154,200 or more.
Yes — Chicago pays -4% relative to the Illinois state median for Police Officers. Major metros typically concentrate higher-paying employers and command a wage premium over rural and small-city areas in the same state.
Chicago vs. national: +15%. That puts Chicago among the stronger US markets for Police Officers — though cost of living in Chicago is also typically elevated.
In Chicago, the median Police Officer salary of $93,500 typically corresponds to 5–9 years of experience (mid-level). Entry-level Police Officers in Chicago start around $65,400, while seniors (10+ years) reach $112,200 or more.
Metro medians are useful benchmarks — but your exact number depends on your experience, education, and the specific employer. Run the free calculator for a personalized read.
Get my personal salary report →