Correctional Officer salary in United States

Average Yearly Salary of Correctional Officer in United States is approximately 39,774 USD (39,949 USD). Data is for 2025 and indicates a pre-tax value. The salary itself depends on multiple factors such as seniority, job performance, certifications, experience or any other bonuses. The value indicated is an average amount based on records we have in database. Real values may vary. The data is for orientational purposes.

What does Correctional Officer do?

A correctional officer is a professional responsible for maintaining security and order within correctional facilities such as prisons, jails, and detention centers. Their primary role is to supervise and manage the activities of inmates, ensuring their safety, welfare, and compliance with rules and regulations. Correctional officers conduct routine inspections, maintain inmate records, enforce discipline, and respond to emergencies such as fights or riots. They also perform searches for contraband items, monitor visitation, and escort inmates to court or medical appointments. The occupation requires excellent communication and interpersonal skills, as well as the ability to handle stressful situations and maintain self-control. Attention to detail, physical fitness, and sound judgment are crucial qualities for a correctional officer.

Skills: Correctional Officer, Prison Guard, Detention Officer, Law Enforcement, Security, Inmate Supervision
Job industry: Law enforcement

How much does Correctional Officer make?

Difference in salary year over year or average salary increase is approximately 3 %


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Salary comparison to National average

Is Correctional Officer a well paid job?

No, our data shows that Correctional Officer is typically not a well-paid job. The salary varies based on experience. Meaning that even though Correctional Officer might be a low paying job, with experience the salary might increase to satisfactory levels.

What is considered a high salary for Correctional Officer?

High salary for Correctional Officer would be somewhere between 43,751 USD and 57,672 USD. However this is an estimation based on Gaussian Distribution.

How much can you save working as Correctional Officer in United States?

Living in United States the approximate monthly expenses are: 2,280 USD. This amount covers basic needs such as food, housing, clothing, healthcare and education costs for a single person. No luxury expenses such as traveling, leisure, hobbies are included in the estimation.

Estimated Yearly Salary: 39,774 USD
Estimated Monthly Salary: 3,315 USD
Estimated Weekly Salary: 765 USD per week
Estimated Hourly Salary: 19 USD per hour
By working as Correctional Officer a person can save up to 1,049 USD per month or 12,589 USD yearly. Values are pre-tax.

NOTE: These values are estimates and are averaged for the whole country. Furthermore the value is likely exaggerated as no other expenses are taken into account in the projection. Unessential expenses are very subjective and are difficult to assess. Most likely the previously estimated number is significantly lower for majority of people. Expenses in different cities across the country may vary. Above values accuracy is low and is based on limited set of data obtained.

For more information regarding expenses in United States, see costs of living in United States.

Salary comparison to region and neighbouring coutries

Country's neighbours are: Canada, Mexico.
To make it easier for comparison a conversion from local currency to USD has been made (conversion rates may vary).

Estimated Yearly Salary for Correctional Officer

Last revision of data: 2025-01-04

Salary increase per years of experience

Based on data available the salary increase per years of experience is as following

0 years (beginner) equals base salary

1 to 5 years of experience yields +12% salary increase

6 to 10 years of experience yields +25% salary increase

11 to 15 years of experience yields +16% salary increase

16 to 25 years of experience yields +9% salary increase

more than 25 years of experience yields +10% salary increase

NOTE: Details based on limited set of data. Percentages may vary. The salary increase over years of experience can vary widely based on factors such as job industry, job role, location, company size, and individual performance. To gain even larger increase in salary one is advised to switch jobs and / or employer.

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Data as of 2025

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