First-Line Supervisors of Law Enforcement Workers: $100,050 Median Salary in 2025
First-line supervisors of law enforcement workers earn a median salary of $100,050 per year, or about $48 per hour, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. The top 10% make over $159,810, while those at the bottom earn around $58,450. With 208,000 jobs across the country, this is a well-compensated leadership role in policing.
How much First-Line Supervisors of Law Enforcement Workers earn
The median annual wage for first-line supervisors of law enforcement workers is $100,050, with a mean wage of $105,050. Pay varies widely: the lowest 10% earn under $58,450, and the highest 10% exceed $159,810.
Because the role is supervisory, experience and rank drive earnings. Supervisors typically work full-time and often receive overtime pay, shift differentials, and hazard pay.
Many agencies also offer generous benefits, including pensions, health insurance, and paid leave, which add significant total compensation beyond the base salary.
Pay by state
The BLS does not provide state-level breakdowns for this occupation in the latest data, so specific highest- and lowest-paying states are not available. However, supervisors in urban areas and high-cost-of-living states tend to earn more due to agency pay scales and cost-of-living adjustments. Metropolitan areas with large police forces typically offer the highest wages.
How to become First-Line Supervisors of Law Enforcement Workers
To become a first-line supervisor, you typically need several years of experience as a police officer or detective, plus a high school diploma or equivalent. Many agencies require an associate’s or bachelor’s degree in criminal justice or a related field for promotion.
- Start as a patrol officer or detective, gaining 3–5 years of field experience.
- Complete police academy training and any state-specific certification.
- Apply for supervisory exams or promotional boards within your department.
- Leadership and communication skills are heavily weighted; some pursue supervisory training programs.
Job outlook
The BLS does not provide a projected growth rate for this specific occupation from 2024 to 2034. However, overall demand for law enforcement supervisors will be influenced by public safety budgets and population growth. Openings will arise as current supervisors retire or transfer, but competition can be strong in desirable agencies.
Frequently asked questions
What is the salary of a first-line supervisor of law enforcement workers?
The median annual salary is $100,050, with a range from $58,450 at the 10th percentile to $159,810 at the 90th percentile, per BLS data.
How do you become a first-line supervisor of police?
You need several years of experience as a law enforcement officer, a high school diploma (college preferred), and successful completion of a promotional process, which may include exams and interviews.
Is this a growing field?
The BLS does not provide a specific growth projection for this occupation, but demand will generally align with local government budgets and community safety needs.
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 First-Line Supervisors of Law Enforcement Workers data.