Correctional Officers and Jailers Salary 2025: $58,940 Median, Down 7.8%
The median annual salary for Correctional Officers and Jailers hit $58,940 in 2024, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. That works out to roughly $28 an hour. The middle 50% of workers earn between $42,760 and $93,220. With employment at 380,500 and a projected 7.8% decline over the next decade, this isn't a growth field — but turnover still generates about 30,100 openings each year.
How much Correctional Officers and Jailers earn
The BLS reports a mean annual wage of $63,630 for the occupation, which includes experienced officers pulling the average higher. Typical pay ranges from $42,760 at the 10th percentile to $93,220 at the 90th percentile.
Your actual earnings depend on experience, location, and whether you work for a state prison, local jail, or federal facility. Overtime is common in many facilities and can boost take-home pay significantly.
- Median annual: $58,940
- Mean hourly: $28.00 (approx)
- 10th percentile: $42,760
- 90th percentile: $93,220
Pay by state
California leads with an average of $96,370, followed by New Jersey ($94,770), Massachusetts ($86,310), Oregon ($83,690), and Washington ($79,460). These states typically have higher costs of living and stronger union protections.
At the low end, Arkansas averages $40,330, Louisiana $39,850, and Mississippi $38,720. If you’re willing to relocate, moving to a top-paying state can add $50,000+ to your annual salary.
How to become Correctional Officers and Jailer
The typical path starts with a high school diploma or GED. Most agencies require you to be at least 18 or 21, a U.S. citizen, and pass a background check, drug test, and physical fitness exam. Some states or federal positions demand an associate’s or bachelor’s degree in criminal justice or a related field.
After hiring, you’ll complete a state-run training academy — often lasting 8 to 16 weeks — covering self-defense, firearms, report writing, and legal procedures. On-the-job training with a field training officer follows. No prior law enforcement experience is usually required to enter the field.
- Earn a high school diploma or GED (minimum).
- Meet age, citizenship, and background requirements.
- Pass physical fitness, drug, and psychological exams.
- Complete a state training academy (8–16 weeks).
- Undergo on-the-job field training.
Job outlook
Employment for Correctional Officers and Jailers is projected to shrink 7.8% from 2024 to 2034, as decarceration policies, alternative sentencing, and budget cuts reduce the need for staff. That decline translates to about 30,100 openings per year nationwide, mostly due to workers leaving the profession or retiring.
Despite the overall drop, job opportunities will vary by region and facility type. Local jails tend to have steadier demand than state prisons. Candidates with military or security experience may have an edge.
Frequently asked questions
What is the highest-paying state for Correctional Officers and Jailers?
California pays the most, with an average annual wage of $96,370, followed by New Jersey ($94,770) and Massachusetts ($86,310).
What education do you need to become a Correctional Officer?
You typically need a high school diploma or GED. Some agencies require an associate’s or bachelor’s degree in criminal justice. All candidates must pass background checks, drug tests, and physical fitness exams.
Is the job outlook for Correctional Officers positive?
No, the BLS projects a 7.8% decline in employment from 2024 to 2034, meaning fewer jobs overall. However, about 30,100 openings per year will arise due to turnover and retirements.
Salary figures are U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates (OEWS / Employment Projections). For informational purposes only; not career or financial advice. See the full Correctional Officers and Jailers data.