The Police IndexStop data: 2024 · Pay and hiring checked Nov 2026
La Mesa Police Department
73 swornStarts at $112,153Hiring new officers nowApplicant Score 85
La Mesa Police is a municipal department in East San Diego County with 73 sworn officers and 31 civilian employees. New officers start in patrol and can apply for special assignments after three years.
Department size
73 sworn
Undated count on the department page, read Nov 2026
The La Mesa Police Department is dedicated to protecting life and property while promoting community involvement through professional service, honor, trust and integrity.Mission statement, source
Area covered
The department patrols the city limits of La Mesa, about 9 square miles in San Diego County. The city budget lists a population of 60,908 for fiscal year 2025-2026.
Headquarters
8085 University Avenue, La Mesa, CA 91942
First assignment
Patrol
Departments next door
Departments whose areas border this one. Most applicants shortlist by where they want to work.
The recruiting FAQ says age 21 and U.S. citizenship or a pending application. The October 2026 posting says age 20 and a half and legal work authorization.
The 2025-2027 city budget proposes adding four sworn officers and one lieutenant over two years.
