Metro Police Officer vs Surgeon
Salary Comparison.
Side-by-side monthly salary breakdown for South Africa in 2026 — entry to senior level, gross before tax.
Surgeon earns 665% more than Metro Police Officer
Median R 130 000/month vs R 17 000/month — a R 113 000/month difference
Metro Police Officer
R 204 000/year
23% below SA workforce median
Surgeon
R 1 560 000/year
491% above SA workforce median
Salary by experience level
| Level | Metro Police Officer | Surgeon |
|---|---|---|
| Entry-level(0–2 yrs) | R 10 500 | R 65 000 |
| Mid-level(3–6 yrs) | R 17 000 | R 115 000 |
| Senior(7+ yrs) | R 35 000 | R 230 000 |
Median monthly gross before PAYE tax · South Africa 2026
Salary range comparison
Entry-level
Mid-level
Senior
Key differences
Metro Police Officer
Metro police services are expanding as SA municipalities tackle traffic and public safety challenges, providing stable employment with modest growth.
Surgeon
South Africa has a severe shortage of surgeons, particularly in the public sector. Private sector demand is growing with rising medical aid penetration. International emigration of surgeons creates ongoing vacancies.
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Frequently asked questions
Which earns more — a Metro Police Officer or a Surgeon in South Africa?▾
A Surgeon earns more on average. The median monthly salary for a Surgeon is R 130 000/month, compared to R 17 000/month for a Metro Police Officer — a difference of R 113 000/month (665% higher).
What is the Metro Police Officer salary in South Africa in 2026?▾
The median Metro Police Officer salary in South Africa is R 17 000/month gross in 2026. Entry-level positions pay R 8 000–R 14 000/month, mid-level pays R 14 000–R 22 000/month, and senior roles pay R 25 000–R 55 000/month.
What is the Surgeon salary in South Africa in 2026?▾
The median Surgeon salary in South Africa is R 130 000/month gross in 2026. Entry-level positions pay R 55 000–R 80 000/month, mid-level pays R 90 000–R 160 000/month, and senior roles pay R 160 000–R 400 000/month.
How do I calculate take-home pay for a Metro Police Officer or Surgeon?▾
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.