Arlington County Raises Police Starting Salary to $90,012 — Highest in the Region

ARLINGTON, VA – Arlington County is dramatically raising the starting salary for police officers to $90,012, making it the highest law enforcement starting pay in the National Capital Region. The change takes effect on July 1, 2026, the beginning of the next fiscal year.

Under the county’s new collective bargaining agreement, lateral transfers—officers joining Arlington from other departments—will start at a salary as high as $103,330. All new officers and laterals are also eligible for signing bonuses up to $25,000.

The increase is part of a broader strategy to attract and retain qualified officers amid nationwide recruitment challenges. Current ACPD officers at the ranks of Officer, Corporal, Sergeant, and Lieutenant will also see raises to ensure pay remains competitive 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. “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.”

Regional Comparison

Before this change, Arlington’s starting salary for officers was approximately $72,013, already among the higher levels in the area. The 2026 increase represents an $18,000 jump—a bold move that places Arlington well ahead of its neighbors:

• Alexandria, VA: Starting salary around $62,700–$64,000 for Police Officer. Four years ago, in neighboring Alexandria VA, a video went viral of Santa Claus asking then-City Manager Mark Jinks to raise the pay for police and firefighters.

• Washington, D.C. (MPD): Starting salary $66,419, increasing to $72,668 after probation

• Montgomery County, MD: Entry-level salary $70,056

• Fairfax County, VA: Starting salary $67,742 for new recruits

• Potomac, MD: Average estimated salary $61,500 for police officers

The regional average for entry-level law enforcement salaries currently sits in the mid-$60,000 to low-$70,000 range, meaning Arlington’s new rate outpaces most by 15–25 percent.