Intro
Discover the latest Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) salary ranges, including base pay, overtime, and benefits. Learn how LAPD officer salaries compare to national averages and explore the factors influencing police officer compensation in LA. Get the inside scoop on LAPD pay scales, police officer requirements, and career growth opportunities.
The Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) is one of the largest and most respected law enforcement agencies in the United States. As a major metropolitan police department, the LAPD offers competitive salaries and benefits to its officers. In this article, we will delve into the details of the LAPD salary structure, including the base salary, overtime pay, and benefits.

Base Salary
The base salary for LAPD officers varies based on rank and level of experience. The department has a tiered salary system, with higher ranks and more experienced officers earning higher salaries. Here is a breakdown of the base salary ranges for LAPD officers:
- Police Officer I (Entry-Level): $62,974 - $82,661 per year
- Police Officer II (Intermediate): $71,364 - $94,667 per year
- Police Officer III (Advanced): $81,354 - $108,459 per year
- Senior Lead Officer: $91,344 - $122,259 per year
- Sergeant: $101,334 - $136,059 per year
- Lieutenant: $111,324 - $149,859 per year
- Captain: $121,314 - $163,659 per year
- Commander: $131,304 - $177,459 per year
- Deputy Chief: $141,294 - $191,259 per year
- Assistant Chief: $151,284 - $205,059 per year
- Chief of Police: $161,274 - $218,859 per year
Overtime Pay
In addition to their base salary, LAPD officers can earn overtime pay for working beyond their regular shifts. Overtime pay is calculated at 1.5 times the officer's regular hourly rate. The LAPD has a generous overtime policy, allowing officers to earn significant amounts of extra pay.
- Overtime pay rates:
- Police Officer I: $44.81 - $59.41 per hour
- Police Officer II: $51.41 - $68.41 per hour
- Police Officer III: $58.01 - $77.41 per hour
- Senior Lead Officer: $64.61 - $86.41 per hour
- Sergeant: $71.21 - $95.41 per hour
- Lieutenant: $77.81 - $104.41 per hour
- Captain: $84.41 - $113.41 per hour
- Commander: $91.01 - $122.41 per hour
- Deputy Chief: $97.61 - $131.41 per hour
- Assistant Chief: $104.21 - $140.41 per hour
- Chief of Police: $110.81 - $149.41 per hour
Benefits
The LAPD offers a comprehensive benefits package to its officers, including:
- Health insurance: The LAPD offers a range of health insurance plans, including HMOs and PPOs.
- Dental insurance: The department provides dental insurance coverage for officers and their families.
- Vision insurance: The LAPD offers vision insurance coverage for officers and their families.
- Life insurance: The department provides life insurance coverage for officers, with optional additional coverage available.
- Retirement plan: The LAPD offers a pension plan, with officers eligible to retire after 20 years of service.
- Paid time off: Officers receive paid vacation time, sick leave, and holidays.
- Education benefits: The LAPD offers tuition reimbursement and education assistance programs for officers pursuing higher education.

Special Pay
The LAPD offers special pay incentives for officers who work in specialized units or take on additional responsibilities. These incentives can include:
- SWAT team pay: Officers assigned to the SWAT team receive an additional $1,000 - $2,000 per month.
- K-9 unit pay: Officers assigned to the K-9 unit receive an additional $500 - $1,000 per month.
- Detective pay: Officers assigned to detective positions receive an additional $1,000 - $2,000 per month.
- Language pay: Officers who are fluent in a second language may receive an additional $500 - $1,000 per month.
Career Advancement
The LAPD offers a range of career advancement opportunities for officers. The department has a promotional process, which allows officers to compete for higher ranks and specialized positions. Officers can also pursue specialized training and certifications to enhance their skills and advance their careers.

Conclusion
The LAPD offers a competitive salary and benefits package to its officers. With a range of career advancement opportunities and special pay incentives, the department provides a rewarding and challenging career for law enforcement professionals. Whether you're just starting your career or looking to advance to a higher rank, the LAPD has something to offer.
We hope this article has provided you with a comprehensive overview of the LAPD salary and benefits structure. If you have any questions or would like to learn more about the department, please don't hesitate to reach out.
What is the starting salary for an LAPD officer?
+The starting salary for an LAPD officer is $62,974 per year.
How much overtime pay can LAPD officers earn?
+LAPD officers can earn overtime pay at 1.5 times their regular hourly rate. The amount of overtime pay varies based on rank and level of experience.
What benefits does the LAPD offer its officers?
+The LAPD offers a comprehensive benefits package, including health insurance, dental insurance, vision insurance, life insurance, and a retirement plan.