The job market for police officers in the United States

There are currently an estimated 698,800 police officers in the United States. The police officer job market is expected to grow by 3.1% between 2024 and 2034.

How employable are police officers?

CareerExplorer rates police officers with a C employability rating, meaning this career should provide moderate employment opportunities for the foreseeable future. Over the next 10 years, it is expected the US will need 22,000 police officers.

Are police officers in demand?

Although budgets of state and local governments directly influence the demand and job prospects for police officers, population growth, the ongoing need to ensure public safety, and turnover in the field will result in openings for qualified candidates. Layoffs of police officers are rare because needed staffing cuts generally occur due to retirements. The majority of jobs in the field are with city police forces, but opportunities also exist with state police, federal agencies, and private security services. Positions with state and federal agencies, such as the FBI and CIA, will remain among the most competitive, due to their higher salaries and greater opportunities for promotions and inter-agency transfers. Aspiring officers with a degree in law enforcement or criminal justice will increase their marketability; these candidates are the most likely to be admitted to a department’s police academy. Physical strength, ability to manage stressful situations, communication skills, and leadership abilities are also viewed as core competencies for this occupation. Military or investigative experience and bilingualism are viewed as further assets. While each police department has specific hiring criteria, most require that applicants be at least twenty-one years of age and pass a background check and psychological examinations.

What’s the supply of police officers?

The police officer industry is concentrated in California, Texas, New York

Police Officer job market by state