Detective (SAPS) vs Cardiologist
Salary Comparison.
Side-by-side monthly salary breakdown for South Africa in 2026 — entry to senior level, gross before tax.
Cardiologist earns 543% more than Detective (SAPS)
Median R 135 000/month vs R 21 000/month — a R 114 000/month difference
Detective (SAPS)
R 252 000/year
5% below SA workforce median
Cardiologist
R 1 620 000/year
514% above SA workforce median
Salary by experience level
| Level | Detective (SAPS) | Cardiologist |
|---|---|---|
| Entry-level(0–2 yrs) | R 14 000 | R 70 000 |
| Mid-level(3–6 yrs) | R 21 000 | R 130 000 |
| Senior(7+ yrs) | R 33 000 | R 220 000 |
Median monthly gross before PAYE tax · South Africa 2026
Salary range comparison
Entry-level
Mid-level
Senior
Key differences
Detective (SAPS)
SAPS detective posts are government-funded; growth is tied to budget allocations. The SAPS is chronically understaffed in detective capacity, with slow resolution of this gap.
Cardiologist
Demand for cardiologists in South Africa is rising due to increasing cardiovascular disease incidence. The public sector faces a critical shortage, while private demand is driven by growing medical aid uptake.
See your actual take-home pay
Enter any gross salary to calculate PAYE, UIF, and net pay after deductions.
Frequently asked questions
Which earns more — a Detective (SAPS) or a Cardiologist in South Africa?▾
A Cardiologist earns more on average. The median monthly salary for a Cardiologist is R 135 000/month, compared to R 21 000/month for a Detective (SAPS) — a difference of R 114 000/month (543% higher).
What is the Detective (SAPS) salary in South Africa in 2026?▾
The median Detective (SAPS) salary in South Africa is R 21 000/month gross in 2026. Entry-level positions pay R 12 000–R 17 000/month, mid-level pays R 17 000–R 26 000/month, and senior roles pay R 25 000–R 45 000/month.
What is the Cardiologist salary in South Africa in 2026?▾
The median Cardiologist salary in South Africa is R 135 000/month gross in 2026. Entry-level positions pay R 60 000–R 85 000/month, mid-level pays R 100 000–R 180 000/month, and senior roles pay R 160 000–R 350 000/month.
How do I calculate take-home pay for a Detective (SAPS) or Cardiologist?▾
Use the Rand Tools PAYE calculator. Enter the gross monthly salary and it will calculate your exact take-home pay after PAYE income tax, UIF (1% of gross, capped at R177.12/month), and any pension or medical aid contributions.