Here are the best and worst states to be a police officer

LOS ANGELES - A new WalletHub study ranks all 50 states and Washington, D.C., by how "police-friendly" they are in 2025—and the findings reveal stark differences in compensation, safety, and job support across the U.S.

The report comes amid a nationwide conversation on policing standards, officer shortages, and the changing public perception of law enforcement. While some departments are investing in training and transparency, others struggle with retention and community trust. WalletHub’s study weighs those dynamics, comparing everything from salaries and job hazards to training hours and de-escalation policies.

Which states are best for police officers in 2025?

By the numbers:

California earned the top spot thanks to high police compensation and rigorous training standards. Officers in the Golden State start at over $5,600 a month on average and earn a median annual salary of nearly $85,600, adjusted for cost of living—the third-highest nationwide.

Connecticut and Illinois followed closely behind, both emphasizing officer training and education. Connecticut requires 1,321 hours of basic training—more than any other state—and ranks third in police safety metrics. Illinois boasts the highest median annual wage for officers at over $101,700.

"Some states make protecting and serving the public in a law enforcement career more appealing than others," said WalletHub analyst Chip Lupo. "The best states for police officers offer competitive compensation, supplemented by solid training that helps minimize the chances of deadly violence between officers and civilians."

Where is it hardest to be a cop?

The other side:

At the bottom of the list, Alaska ranked 51st overall, falling behind Hawaii and Nevada. Officers in these states face low income growth, fewer training requirements, and higher job risks.

For example, Alaska scored among the worst for officer training and job protections, and ranks near the top for violent crime. Meanwhile, Kentucky, which ranked 50th for per-capita police spending, also placed 47th in overall state ranking.

New Mexico, Arkansas, and Louisiana rounded out the bottom tier, with poor marks for violent crime, officer assault rates, and income.

What’s driving these rankings?

The backstory:

WalletHub evaluated states using 30 metrics across three dimensions: Opportunity & Competition, Law Enforcement Training Requirements, and Job Hazards & Protections. Data sources included the FBI, Bureau of Labor Statistics, National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, and other federal and nonprofit databases.

Factors ranged from salary growth and officer fatalities to policies on body cameras, red flag laws, and de-escalation training. States were also scored on whether they allow police work before training completion and whether officers must undergo continued professional education.

In California, for example, police are required to complete 664 hours of basic training plus 560 hours of field training—among the highest in the country. The state also mandates de-escalation instruction and supports "Blue Alerts" to help catch suspects who injure officers.

Connecticut scored highly on safety, with one of the lowest rates of officers killed or assaulted, thanks in part to low crime rates and comprehensive training policies.

What’s next for law enforcement careers?

What's next:

The report notes that job protections and support systems may play a bigger role in recruiting and retaining officers going forward—especially as departments grapple with public scrutiny and labor shortages.

Experts featured in WalletHub’s study said that to improve the field, departments must balance investment in equipment and technology with a deeper focus on soft skills and community relationships.

Among the questions they explored: how to rebuild public trust, diversify police departments, and ensure officers are trained to handle mental health and substance use crises.