Becoming an IAS Officer (Indian Administrative Service) is one of India’s most prestigious career dreams — not just for the power, but also for the salary, benefits, and perks it brings.
This article breaks down the IAS salary in 2025, including the pay scale under the 7th Central Pay Commission (CPC), allowances, and in-hand salary at every rank.
💰 IAS Salary Structure (As per 7th CPC 2025)
| IAS Rank / Designation | Pay Level | Basic Pay | Approx In-Hand Salary (with allowances) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Junior Scale (Entry) | Level 10 | ₹56,100 | ₹85,000 – ₹90,000 |
| Senior Time Scale | Level 11 | ₹67,700 | ₹1,00,000+ |
| Junior Administrative Grade | Level 12 | ₹78,800 | ₹1,20,000+ |
| Selection Grade | Level 13 | ₹1,18,500 | ₹1,50,000+ |
| Super Time Scale | Level 14 | ₹1,44,200 | ₹1,75,000+ |
| Above Super Time Scale | Level 15 | ₹1,82,200 | ₹2,00,000+ |
| Apex Scale (Chief Secretary) | Level 17 | ₹2,25,000 (fixed) | ₹2,40,000+ |
| Cabinet Secretary (Top Rank) | Level 18 | ₹2,50,000 (fixed) | ₹2,60,000+ |
🏠 Allowances and Perks
IAS officers get several benefits apart from their salary:
- 🏘️ Government accommodation (spacious bungalows in major cities)
- 🚗 Official vehicle + driver
- 🧑💼 Domestic staff
- 📞 Free mobile, landline, and internet
- ✈️ Travel allowances
- 💰 Dearness Allowance (DA), House Rent Allowance (HRA), Travel Allowance (TA)
- 🏦 Pension and gratuity after retirement
🧾 IAS Salary Comparison: Training vs Senior Levels
| Stage | Salary (Approx) |
|---|---|
| During Training (LBSNAA) | ₹55,000 (stipend) |
| Entry Level (District Officer) | ₹85,000 |
| After 10 Years | ₹1.2 – ₹1.5 Lakh |
| Top Positions (Cabinet Secretary) | ₹2.5 Lakh+ |
📈 IAS Salary Growth and Promotions
- IAS officers are promoted every 4–5 years based on performance.
- Salary hikes happen with DA revisions and Pay Commission updates.
- The 8th Pay Commission, expected around 2026–27, could bring a 20–25% salary hike.
🌍 State-Wise IAS Salary (Slight Variation)
Allowances differ by state due to HRA slabs (8%, 16%, 24%).
For example:
- Delhi, Mumbai: higher HRA (24%)
- Tier-2 cities: 16%
- Rural postings: additional hardship allowance
🏆 Non-Monetary Benefits
- Status, influence, and authority in governance.
- Opportunity to directly serve the public.
- Priority medical care and a lifetime pension.
❓ FAQs on IAS Salary
Q1. What is the IAS starting salary in 2025?
👉 Around ₹85,000–₹90,000 in-hand (after allowances).
Q2. What can be the highest salary of an IAS officer?
👉 The Cabinet Secretary earns ₹2.5 lakh per month (fixed).
Q3. Do IAS officers pay income tax?
👉 Yes, IAS officers pay regular taxes as per Indian tax laws.
Q4. What’s the salary during LBSNAA training?
👉 Around ₹55,000/month including DA and basic pay.
🔗 Internal Links (for Misccalc.com)
🌐 External Sources (Credible References)
- DoPT Official Pay Matrix
- 7th CPC Pay Matrix PDF (Govt. of India)
- UPSC Official Website