Transit and Railroad Police Salary 2025: $90,230 Median, Job Growth, and How to Start
Transit and railroad police earn a median salary of $90,230 per year, or about $43 an hour, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. The occupation employs about 4,390 people across the U.S., with typical earnings ranging from $57,690 at the 10th percentile to $125,910 at the 90th.
How much Transit and Railroad Police earn
The national median salary for transit and railroad police is $90,230, and the mean annual wage is $91,810. Hourly, that works out to roughly $43. The top 10% of earners make over $125,910, while the bottom 10% earn less than $57,690.
Pay varies by employer. Those working for larger transit agencies or passenger railroads often earn more than officers at smaller commuter lines. Union representation is common and helps set pay scales.
Pay by state
California pays transit and railroad police the most of any state, with an average of $109,650. New Jersey ($106,290), Maryland ($99,420), New York ($90,460), and Utah ($87,770) also rank high.
On the lower end, Georgia ($57,690), Missouri ($67,840), and Florida ($69,810) offer average wages that fall below the national median. These differences often reflect cost of living, union strength, and agency budgets.
How to become Transit and Railroad Police
The path usually starts with a high school diploma or GED, but many agencies prefer some college coursework in criminal justice or a related field. Most hires have prior law enforcement experience, as transit and railroad police are typically seasoned officers.
Candidates must complete a police academy training program certified by their state or the Federal Railroad Administration. After the academy, they often undergo specialized training in railroad operations, trespass enforcement, and emergency response. A valid driver's license, clean criminal record, and physical fitness test are standard requirements.
Some agencies require U.S. citizenship and a minimum age of 21. Background checks, drug tests, and psychological evaluations are standard.
- Earn a high school diploma or GED; college coursework in criminal justice helps.
- Complete a state / federal-approved police academy.
- Obtain prior law enforcement experience (many agencies require 1–3 years).
- Pass background check, drug test, physical exam, and psychological screening.
- Apply to transit agencies, commuter railroads, or passenger rail companies.
Job outlook
Employment of transit and railroad police is projected to grow 3% from 2024 to 2034, about as fast as the average for all occupations. That translates to roughly 200 job openings each year, mostly to replace workers who retire or leave the field.
Growth is tied to public transportation ridership and federal safety mandates. Agencies that expand rail service may add positions, but budget constraints can limit hiring. Competition is expected for jobs with larger, higher-paying agencies.
Frequently asked questions
What is the average salary of a Transit and Railroad Police officer?
The national median salary is $90,230 per year, with a mean annual wage of $91,810. Hourly pay averages about $43.
What are the highest-paying states for Transit and Railroad Police?
California ($109,650), New Jersey ($106,290), Maryland ($99,420), New York ($90,460), and Utah ($87,770) are the top-paying states.
How do I become a Transit and Railroad Police officer?
You typically need a high school diploma, completion of a police academy, and often prior law enforcement experience. Requirements vary by agency but include background checks, physical exams, and specialized railroad training.
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 Transit and Railroad Police data.