Police Officer Salary UK 2026
UK police officer salary by rank for 2026. From constable to chief constable — full pay scales for England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland.
Police Pay Scales England & Wales 2026
| Grade / Level | Annual Salary | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Constable (starting) | £28,551 | Year 1 probationer |
| Constable (top) | £46,044 | Experienced officer |
| Sergeant | £46,044–£50,440 | First line supervisor |
| Inspector | £57,162–£59,840 | Middle management |
| Chief Inspector | £61,614–£65,539 | Senior management |
| Superintendent | £70,173–£82,881 | Area/borough commander |
| Chief Superintendent | £86,970–£91,749 | Senior commander |
| Assistant Chief Constable | £109,215+ | Force executive |
| Deputy Chief Constable | £130,020+ | Number two in force |
| Chief Constable | £152,769–£243,432 | Head of police force |
Figures are estimates based on ONS ASHE data, sector surveys and advertised salaries. Individual salaries will vary.
About Police Officer Salary Pay
Police officers in England and Wales are paid on a national pay scale set by the Police Remuneration Review Body (PRRB). Constables start at £28,551 and progress through the scale to £46,044. Additional allowances apply for specialist roles, unsocial hours and London weighting.
Metropolitan Police officers receive a London weighting allowance of £2,378-£7,159 per year depending on their location. Officers in the City of London Police may receive slightly different allowances.
Detective constables (DCs) are paid on the same scale as uniformed constables — the detective role does not automatically attract higher basic pay, though specialist detective units may attract allowances. Firearms officers receive a specialist role enhancement.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much do police officers earn in the UK?
Police constables in England and Wales start at £28,551 and can earn up to £46,044 with experience. Sergeants earn £46,044–£50,440. Inspectors earn £57,162–£59,840. The median police officer salary is approximately £42,000.
How much do detectives earn in the UK?
Detective constables (DCs) are paid on the same pay scale as uniformed constables — from £28,551 to £46,044. Detective sergeants follow the sergeant scale at £46,044–£50,440. The detective role itself does not attract a specific pay premium, though specialist units may have allowances.
What is the starting salary for a police officer?
Newly recruited police constables in England and Wales start at £28,551 per year (plus London weighting if applicable). In most forces, probationers complete a two-year training programme before being confirmed as constables. Pay increases each year on the incremental scale.