In the bustling metropolis of San Francisco, where the tech industry reigns supreme, the average annual salary hovers around $95,265. Software developers, a staple of the city’s workforce, earn an average of $158,000 per year. However, amidst these figures, the compensation of San Francisco’s police officers stands out, not just for its competitiveness but for its potential to surpass many high-profile professions.
According to data from the San Francisco Police Department (SFPD), the base salary for a police officer ranges from $115,778 to $147,472 per year . This base salary is complemented by additional earnings such as overtime and other forms of compensation. For instance, after seven years of service, an officer’s base salary can reach $164,164 annually, which translates to approximately $68.65 per hour . When factoring in average overtime—estimated at seven hours per week—total compensation can rise to around $201,663 per year. Notably, the top 10% of earners in the department have reported total
For instance, a Sergeant 3 within the Police Services division had a base salary of $194,203.31. With overtime earnings amounting to $52,856.75 and other pay totaling $30,657.06, the total compensation reached $277,717.12. When combined with benefits totaling $63,970.72, the overall runeration for this individual was $341,687.84. This substantial figure underscores the significant impact of overtime and additional pay on overall earnings.
Similarly, another Sergeant 3 reported a base salary of $189,050.35. However, this officer’s overtime pay was notably higher at $156,060.58, with other pay adding $27,442, culminating in a total compensation of $372,552.93. Including benefits worth $59,272.38, the total pay package amounted to $431,825.31. This example highlights how extensive overtime can substantially elevate an officer’s earnings.
The data also indicates that a Lieutenant 3 had a base salary of $222,901.09, with overtime earnings of $69,527.71 and other pay of $62,252.76, leading to a total compensation of $354,681.56. With benefits totaling $66,802.16, the overall remuneration was $421,483.72. This reflects the higher base salaries associated with elevated ranks within the department.
In contrast, positions such as Clerk Typist and Community Police Services Aide had lower base salaries of $81,160.57 and $97,846.60, respectively. Their total compensations, after accounting for overtime, other pay, and benefits, were $129,881.85 and $155,742.39, respectively. These figures illustrate the variance in pay scales across different roles within the department.
A broader analysis reveals that the median overtime paid to police officers more than doubled from $32,500 in June 2022 to $67,200 in June 2024. This surge in overtime payments is attributed to staffing shortages, necessitating additional hours from existing officers to meet the city’s public safety needs.
Notably, one SFPD officer earned $180,000 in base salary but accrued an additional $465,000 in overtime pay, bringing the total earnings to $645,000 for the fiscal year. Such instances highlight the potential for substantial income through overtime, especially during periods of understaffing.
The SFPD offers competitive starting salaries to attract new recruits. Entry-level police officers can earn up to $143,000 per year.
Furthermore, salary progression within the SFPD is structured to reward experience and tenure. After seven years of service, officers can earn approximately $164,164 annually, which equates to about $68.65 per hour. With average overtime of seven hours per week, total compensation can reach around $201,663 annually. For the top 10% of earners, total compensation, including overtime, can exceed $288,887 per year.