Ferndale vs Grand Rapids: Police Officer Salary (2026)
Compare police officer salaries between Ferndale, MI and Grand Rapids, MI. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Ferndale, MI | Grand Rapids, MI |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $71,180 | $77,213▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $34.23 | $37.12▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $45,612▲ | $45,522 |
| 25th Percentile | $55,408 | $61,650▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $88,061▲ | $84,252 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $99,717▲ | $87,704 |
| Total Employed | 5 | 1,440▲ |
Verdict
Grand Rapids, MI offers better overall compensation for police officers, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Ferndale.
The salary gap between Ferndale and Grand Rapids is $6,033 (8.48%). Grand Rapids's median is -1.69% compared to the US national median of $78,542.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Ferndale spans $54,105,Grand Rapids spans $42,182. Ferndale has a wider pay range, meaning more potential for high earners but also more variation.
Cost-of-Living Adjusted Comparison
After cost-of-living adjustment, Grand Rapids ($80,812 effective) pays 5.81% more than Ferndale ($76,373 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Ferndale if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($99,717)
- ✓You prefer the Michigan area and lifestyle
Choose Grand Rapids if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($77,213/year)
- ✓Larger job market (1,440 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $80,812)
- ✓You prefer the Michigan area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, police officer salaries in Ferndale grew 14.8% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 12.4% growth in Grand Rapids over the same period.
Ferndale, MI
$60,143 (2024) → $69,067 (2025)
Grand Rapids, MI
$66,660 (2019) → $74,920 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Ferndale, MI
Grand Rapids, MI
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays police officers more: Ferndale or Grand Rapids?
What is the hourly rate difference between Ferndale and Grand Rapids?
Should I relocate from Ferndale to Grand Rapids as a police officer?
What do entry-level police officers earn in Ferndale vs Grand Rapids?
Related Comparisons
Written by Jordan Lee, BA Criminal Justice
Career Analyst
Jordan Lee has over 10 years of experience in law enforcement. They specialize in community policing strategies. Jordan works with a municipal police department.
Methodology & Data Source
All salary figures are 2026 projections based on BLS OEWS May 2025 data. A 3.06% CAGR (derived from 6-year national BLS trends) was applied to estimate current compensation. Cost-of-living adjustments use BEA Regional Price Parity data. Actual salaries vary by employer, certifications, and experience.
Data Sources & Methodology
Source: BLS, OEWS , released .
Compiled and verified by Jordan Lee, BA Criminal Justice, a licensed police officer with 10+ years of clinical experience. · View source data at BLS.gov