Police Officer Hourly Pay in La Crosse, WI: $36.69 (2026)

In La Crosse, Wisconsin, police officers earn a median hourly rate of $36.69, slightly below the national median of $37.76. This hourly compensation creates diverse opportunities for part-time officers or those seeking per-diem work in various law enforcement activities, including patrolling assigned beats, handling reports at police stations, and providing testimony in court. For officers working three days a week, the flexibility allows them to maintain a work-life balance while engaging in significant daily duties. Hourly pay among La Crosse police officers also varies significantly, ranging from $23.38 for entry-level positions to as much as $44.66 for top earners, according to estimates based on 2025 BLS OEWS data projected to 2026. This competitive hourly landscape reflects both the responsibilities of the role and the various settings in which officers operate.

For those considering part-time work in law enforcement, it's instructive to see how earnings stack up compared to full-time positions. A police officer working a 24-hour week at the median hourly pay would take home approximately $28,198 annually, which can be a manageable income based on individual financial circumstances and responsibilities. However, many full-time positions come with mandatory overtime, often resulting in additional earnings of 20-50% to the base pay due to court appearances or special details. In La Crosse, different employers such as municipal police departments, county sheriff's offices, and federal agencies may offer varied hourly rates, including lucrative off-duty assignments that can run anywhere from $35 to $75 per hour. Officers face crucial decisions when weighing hourly rates against benefits packages; some may opt for slightly lower pay if it includes essential health, retirement, and insurance benefits. For those negotiating hourly pay in La Crosse, it’s beneficial to emphasize not just the base pay, but also potential for overtime and off-duty opportunities that can significantly enhance overall earnings in this field.