Are you searching for the official London Metropolitan Police salary and ranks in 2025? You are not alone. Many people in the United Kingdom who are planning a career in law enforcement, or simply interested in public service, want to know how much officers earn at each rank and how the pay structure works.
The London Metropolitan Police Service (Met Police) is the largest police force in the UK. It is responsible for keeping the city of London and its surrounding areas safe. With over 30,000 officers and staff, it plays a vital role in maintaining law and order.
This guide explains everything you need to know about the London Metropolitan Police ranks and salary in 2025. Whether you’re considering applying, already serving, or just curious, this article provides clear and accurate information to help you understand how the pay system works.
Why You Should Understand London Metropolitan Police Salary and Ranks
It is important to understand the Metropolitan Police salary and rank structure because:
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It helps you plan your law enforcement career properly.
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It gives you clear expectations about salary at each level.
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It allows you to compare police salaries to other careers.
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It helps you set goals for promotion and advancement.
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It shows you what additional benefits and allowances are available.
Pay in the Met Police is set nationally but includes London-specific allowances because of the higher cost of living in the capital.
How Much Do London Metropolitan Police Officers Earn in 2025?
In 2025, salaries for Metropolitan Police officers in London start at about £33,500 per year for a new constable and can rise to over £150,000 per year for senior officers like the Commissioner.
The salary varies depending on rank, years of service, and additional responsibilities. Officers also receive allowances, pensions, paid leave, and other benefits that make a career in the Met Police very competitive.
London Metropolitan Police Rank Structure in 2025
The Met Police has a clear rank hierarchy. Ranks are divided between Police Constables and Sergeants (operational ranks), Inspectors and Chief Inspectors (supervisory ranks), and Senior Command Officers (strategic leadership ranks).
Below is an explanation of each rank with the typical salary range in 2025.
Metropolitan Police Salary by Rank in 2025
Police Constable
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Salary: £33,500 – £44,000 per year
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This is the entry-level rank for all officers after completing training. Salary increases with years of service and experience.
Sergeant
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Salary: £46,500 – £52,000 per year
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First supervisory rank, responsible for a team of constables and daily operational leadership.
Inspector
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Salary: £58,000 – £62,000 per year
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Oversees multiple teams, manages incidents, and ensures operational effectiveness.
Chief Inspector
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Salary: £64,000 – £68,000 per year
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Senior supervisory rank, responsible for planning and coordinating policing in an area.
Superintendent
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Salary: £73,000 – £81,000 per year
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Strategic management role overseeing several departments or a large geographic area.
Chief Superintendent
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Salary: £87,000 – £92,000 per year
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Senior leader in charge of policing large boroughs or specialist units.
Commander
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Salary: £105,000 – £112,000 per year
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Senior officer responsible for major divisions or operations within London.
Deputy Assistant Commissioner
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Salary: £123,000 – £133,000 per year
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Executive leader supporting the Assistant Commissioner and Commissioner.
Assistant Commissioner
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Salary: £140,000 – £150,000 per year
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Senior executive overseeing major parts of the Met’s strategy and operations.
Deputy Commissioner
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Salary: £155,000 – £160,000 per year
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Second-in-command of the entire Metropolitan Police Service.
Commissioner
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Salary: £170,000 – £190,000 per year
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The highest rank in the Met Police, responsible for the overall leadership and direction of the force.
Summary Table: London Metropolitan Police Salary & Ranks 2025
| Rank | Salary Range (£) |
|---|---|
| Police Constable | 33,500 – 44,000 |
| Sergeant | 46,500 – 52,000 |
| Inspector | 58,000 – 62,000 |
| Chief Inspector | 64,000 – 68,000 |
| Superintendent | 73,000 – 81,000 |
| Chief Superintendent | 87,000 – 92,000 |
| Commander | 105,000 – 112,000 |
| Deputy Assistant Commissioner | 123,000 – 133,000 |
| Assistant Commissioner | 140,000 – 150,000 |
| Deputy Commissioner | 155,000 – 160,000 |
| Commissioner | 170,000 – 190,000 |
Factors That Affect Metropolitan Police Salaries in London
Several factors influence how much you earn in the Met Police:
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Rank and Experience: Higher ranks and longer service mean higher pay.
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London Allowances: Officers in London receive extra allowances due to the higher cost of living.
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Special Duties: Officers in certain units (like firearms or counter-terrorism) may earn extra.
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Overtime and Shift Pay: Extra shifts, nights, or holidays can increase earnings.
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Promotions: Climbing to higher ranks comes with significant pay rises.
London Weighting and Other Allowances
All Metropolitan Police officers receive additional allowances on top of base salary:
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London Weighting Allowance: Around £3,000 per year to offset higher living costs.
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Housing Allowance: Available to eligible officers who meet certain criteria.
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Overtime Pay: For working beyond normal hours.
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Specialist Pay: For specific high-risk or highly-skilled roles.
These benefits make a career in the Met even more financially rewarding.
Advantages of a Career in the Metropolitan Police
Here are the key benefits of joining the Met Police:
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Competitive salary with clear progression.
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Job security and pension.
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Opportunities for training and development.
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Variety of career paths and specialist units.
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Chance to serve the community and make a difference.
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Paid holidays, healthcare, and family benefits.
How to Increase Your Salary in the Met Police
If you want to earn more in the Metropolitan Police, you can:
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Apply for promotion to higher ranks.
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Take on specialist or high-demand roles.
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Volunteer for overtime and additional duties.
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Gain professional qualifications.
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Build experience and apply for strategic leadership positions.
Frequently Asked Questions About London Metropolitan Police Salary & Ranks 2025
What is the starting salary for a Police Constable in London?
New constables earn around £33,500 per year, rising with experience.
How much does a Sergeant earn in the Metropolitan Police?
A Sergeant typically earns between £46,500 and £52,000 annually.
Do senior officers earn more than £100,000 per year?
Yes. Senior ranks like Commander, Assistant Commissioner, and above earn six-figure salaries.
Is there extra pay for working in London?
Yes. Officers in London receive a London Weighting Allowance to cover the higher cost of living.
Are there opportunities to earn more through overtime?
Yes. Officers can increase earnings significantly through overtime, extra shifts, and specialist duties.
Final Thoughts: London Metropolitan Police Salary & Ranks 2025 — Pay by Rank Explained
The London Metropolitan Police salary and ranks in 2025 show that a career in law enforcement can be rewarding both financially and professionally. With starting salaries of around £33,500 for constables and reaching nearly £190,000 for the Commissioner, the Met offers clear pathways for advancement and competitive pay at every level.
Whether you aim to join as a constable or climb the ranks to senior leadership, understanding the pay structure and rank progression is crucial for planning your career. The additional benefits, allowances, and job security make the Metropolitan Police an attractive choice for many in the UK.
If you are considering a career in the Met Police, use this guide to help you make informed decisions about your future and set realistic goals for advancement.