Lifestyle

Is Texas a Good or Bad State to Serve in as a Police Officer?

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Tony Maples Photography

 

National attention has increased exponentially for first responders, including law enforcement. Daily stories emerge regarding events surrounding those who serve the public and often put the safety and health of others before their own. As an example related to COVID-19 disease, one in six New York City police officers is out sick or in quarantine. The United States is home to roughly 800,000 officers of the law. Is Texas a good or bad state to serve in as a police officer?

Typically, hazardous jobs come along with incentives to retain a steady workforce. However, from state to state, the salary and work perks vary greatly. With a $65,170 mean annual wage, some benefits include tuition aid, generous leave time, retirement-contribution matches, a take-home vehicle, and entree to fitness facilities. Wondering how Texas ranked in the order of best states to be in law enforcement?

Is Texas a Good or Bad State to Serve in as a Police Officer?

Photo: envato elements

Across 28 indicators of police friendliness, WalletHub compared the 50 states, plus the District of Columbia, to determine 2020’s Best & Worst States to Be a Police Officer. This title and survey include police and sheriff’s patrol officers, detectives, and criminal investigators. Their data set includes officer median income to police fatalities per 1,000 officers to state and local costs for police protection per capita. Additionally included is commentary from a panel of researchers, as well as a complete explanation of the methodology.

Is Texas a Good or Bad State to Serve in as a Police Officer?

Photo: envato elements

Overall, with number one being the best and number 25 being average, Texas is the 17th best state to be a police officer. When further broken down, the Lone Star State is 4th in law enforcement officers per capita, 9th in median income for police, 22nd in percentage of homicide cases solved, 32nd in police deaths per 1,000 officers, 34th in violent crime rate as well as state & local police protection expenses per capita, and finally, 40th in median income growth for law enforcement officers. How do these numbers compare with your understanding of local and state law operations? Follow WalletHub today for more fascinating rankings regarding Texas first responders.