Idaho Troopers Flock to Washington for Higher Salaries

Staffing shortages plague Idaho police departments as officers seek better pay across state lines

Apr. 3, 2026 at 5:14am

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An extreme close-up of a police badge or handcuffs reflecting a bright flash of light, conceptually illustrating the staffing crisis facing Idaho law enforcement agencies.The exodus of Idaho police officers to higher-paying jobs in Washington has left local departments struggling to maintain adequate staffing.Spokane Today

Idaho State Police troopers have been leaving their jobs in droves to take similar, higher-paying positions at law enforcement agencies in neighboring Washington state, including the Washington State Patrol and Spokane Police Department. This exodus has created significant staffing shortages for police departments across Idaho.

Why it matters

The loss of experienced officers to better-paying jobs in Washington is straining already understaffed police forces in Idaho, compromising public safety and community policing efforts. This trend highlights the challenges rural and small-town law enforcement agencies face in retaining talent when larger, better-resourced departments can offer substantially higher salaries.

The details

Idaho State Police officials have acknowledged the difficulty in keeping troopers, especially those stationed near the Washington border. "We were losing a significant number to Washington State Patrol, especially in Lewiston," said one spokesperson. The pay gap between Idaho and Washington law enforcement can be substantial, with some troopers doubling their salaries by making the short move across state lines.

  • The exodus of Idaho State Police troopers to Washington agencies has been ongoing for the past few years.

The players

Idaho State Police

The statewide law enforcement agency for the state of Idaho.

Washington State Patrol

The statewide law enforcement agency for the state of Washington.

Spokane Police Department

The municipal police department serving the city of Spokane, Washington.

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What’s next

Idaho lawmakers are expected to consider proposals to raise salaries for state police in the next legislative session in an effort to stem the tide of officers leaving for better-paying jobs across the border.

The takeaway

The staffing crisis facing Idaho's police departments due to officers seeking higher salaries in Washington highlights the challenges rural and small-town law enforcement agencies face in retaining talent when larger, better-resourced departments can offer substantially higher pay. Addressing this pay disparity will be crucial for Idaho to maintain adequate public safety staffing levels.