Salary and Benefits

It takes many highly qualified and diverse Denver Police Officers to keep a city as vibrant and dynamic as Denver thriving with the unique energy and spirit that define the Mile High City. The officers of the Denver Police Department are the heart of Denver, dedicated to keeping our community safe. Their work makes a real difference every day. They play a vital role in protecting Denver’s present and shaping its future.

From day one at the academy, you’ll earn a competitive salary. Pay continues through graduation and increases annually, with top-level pay achieved in the fourth year after your academy graduation anniversary date. This structured progression ensures your dedication is rewarded as you grow in your career.

2026 Denver Police Salary

Top pay (Police Officer 1st Grade) is achieved in three years and six months.

  • Police Officer Recruit: $73,066

    Salary is paid day one of the academy through graduation.

  • Police Officer 4th Grade: $78,686

    This applies during the first year after academy graduation.

  • Police Officer 3rd Grade: $84,306

    Salary during the second year after the academy graduation anniversary date.

  • Police Officer 2nd Grade: $89,927

    Salary during the third year after the academy graduation anniversary date.

  • Police Officer 1st Grade: $112,408

    Top-level pay begins in the fourth year following the academy graduation anniversary date.

  • Other Ranks and Salaries

    Technician: $120,277
    Detective / Corporal: $123,649
     Sergeant: $134,890
     Lieutenant: $153,999

Comprehensive Benefits

In addition to salary, Denver Police Officers enjoy a robust benefits package, including:

  • All patrol districts are on ten-hour shifts with three consecutive days off
  • Longevity pay starts at five years
  • Officers have the opportunity to work various off-duty assignments for additional pay
  • Vacation starts at 112 hours per year
  • 144 hours of sick leave per year
  • Education Incentive Pay - up to an additional $150/month depending on degree
  • ASL (Accumulated Sick Leave) – after five years of employment, unused sick time can be built up to a saved bank of 144 hours which can be used as additional vacation time
  • Shift selection occurs once per year. In November, you vote for your preferred shift and vacation schedule for the upcoming calendar year. Your chosen shift and vacation schedule will remain in effect for the entire year, starting in January.
  • Civil Service testing for promotion rank (Sergeant and Lieutenant)
  • Health, Dental, and Vision Coverage - Quality plans for you and your family
  • Retirement options at the end of your career
  • After your initial patrol assignment, you’ll have the opportunity to transfer into a variety of specialized career paths, including the Strategic Investigations Bureau, Traffic Operations Section, Training Section, Special Operations Bureau, community relations assignments, or other roles within the department. This list is not exhaustive—your career can grow in many directions.
  • All uniforms and most officer equipment are provided at no cost to you
  • A new bullet-resistant vest is provided every five years
  • Yearly Uniform Allowance
  • Support of our employee organizations to assist you before you become a Denver Police Officer and during your career
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