Police Officer Salary in the UK
Police officers protect communities, prevent crime, respond to emergencies, and investigate criminal activities. They work in various specialisms from neighbourhood to detective work.
Police Officer Take Home Pay
On the average Police Officer salary of £42,000, you would take home £33,760 per year (£2,813.30 per month) after tax and National Insurance.
Effective tax rate: 19.6%|Marginal rate: 20%
Police Officer Salary by Location
Police Officer salaries vary significantly by region. London typically offers the highest salaries but also has a higher cost of living.
Police Officer Salary Growth (2020-2025)
See how Police Officer salaries have changed over the past 5 years, including inflation-adjusted real growth.
+18.2%
Total Growth
+£6,456
Salary Increase
+3.4%
Annual Growth Rate
-7.6%
Real Growth (Inflation Adj.)
Year-over-Year Changes
Key Skills Required
Typical Qualifications
- GCSE or equivalent
- Police training programme
- Enhanced vetting
Police Officer Career Progression
What Does a Police Officer Do?
Industries Hiring Police Officers
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Your Income
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Take Home Pay
£33,759.60/year
80.4% of gross income
- Gross Income£42,000.00
- Taxable Income£29,430.00
- Income Tax-£5,886.00
- National Insurance-£2,354.40
- Total Deductions-£8,240.40
19.6%
Effective Rate
20%
Marginal Rate
£42,000 Salary Insights
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£42,000 vs UK Wages
Above UK average
+20%
vs UK Median
£7,000
Above Median
Where Your £42,000 Goes
Annual breakdown of your salary
Tax Benefits on £42,000 from Pension
See how pension contributions reduce your tax bill
Increase your pension contribution to see potential tax savings. Pension contributions reduce your taxable income.
Related Public Sector Salaries
Police Officer Salary FAQ
What is the average Police Officer salary in the UK?
The average Police Officer salary in the UK is £42,000 per year. Salaries typically range from £28,000 for entry-level positions to £55,000 for senior roles.
How much does a Police Officer earn in London?
A Police Officer in London earns an average of £48,000 per year, which is 20% higher than the national average.
What is the take-home pay for a Police Officer?
On the average Police Officer salary of £42,000, you would take home approximately £33,760 per year (£2,813.30 per month) after income tax and National Insurance.