Police Starting Salary Raised to Highest in Region
Published on November 05, 2025
ARLINGTON, Va. – Arlington County is raising the starting salary for police officers to $90,012, the highest in the National Capital Region. The maximum starting salary for lateral officers transferring from other law enforcement agencies will also raise to $103,330. The new salaries become effective on July 1, 2026, the start of the next fiscal year. All new officer and lateral hires also receive a competitive hiring bonus of up to $25,000. Interested applicants are encouraged to start the hiring process now as salaries will automatically increase on July 1, 2026.
The new starting salary is part of hiring and retention incentives within Arlington County Police Department’s (ACPD) new collective bargaining agreement. Current officers at the ranks of Officer, Corporal, Sergeant and Lieutenant will receive varying percentage salary increases to improve the pay scale for officers throughout their careers.
“The new starting salary will be very impactful in our ability to make significant progress in refilling our ranks following several years of decreased staffing across the law enforcement profession,” said Chief Andy Penn. “The new collective bargaining agreement makes smart investments focused on the importance of retaining our exceptionally dedicated sworn officers while also taking steps to ensure we attract highly qualified applicants to serve and protect the Arlington community. It balances ensuring our pay remains competitive within the region while also supporting our experienced officers as they continue making positive impacts in the lives of those who live, work and visit Arlington.”
Invested in You, Invested in Your Future
The best investment we make at the Arlington County Police Department is in our personnel. A rewarding law enforcement career with ACPD comes with many benefits, including investments in your quality of life, work-life balance, training and development, and wellness and safety. Highlights include:
Get Started on Your Future During ACPD’s Virtual Career Expo
Career-seekers are encouraged to join recruiters at one of our upcoming Virtual Career Expos being held in November. Interested applicants will hear more about a career with ACPD and complete the initial phase of the hiring process which includes the application and qualifying interview. Those progressing to the next phase will receive a complementary voucher to take the Law Enforcement Written Exam.
The Virtual Career Expo will take place on:
- Thursday, November 13 from 6 – 9 p.m.
- Thursday, November 20 from 6 – 9 p.m.
Attend on Microsoft Teams: ACPD Virtual Career Expo
Learn More About a Career with ACPD
Career-seekers are encouraged to visit joinarlingtoncountypd.com to learn more about minimum qualifications, benefits, the hiring process and to get started on your application and follow @joinarlingtonvapd on Instagram and Facebook.
Contact A Recruiter
Arlington County Police Department recruiters can be contacted at 703-228-0988, ACPDRecruiting@arlingtonva.us or by using our online form.