Money isn’t everything, but when you’re planning a life or career in a new country, it matters a lot. Whether you’re moving to the UK for work, thinking about switching industries, or simply wondering what people actually earn these days, understanding salaries is key to building a life that feels secure.
At Remitly, we know what it’s like to build a new chapter from scratch. Knowing what you might earn can help you feel confident when you negotiate, save with purpose, and build the kind of future you came here for. In this guide, we’ll dig into who’s earning what and how international workers like you fit into the picture.
Understanding UK salaries in 2026
The UK job market never sits still. It’s a bit like the weather here: always changing, occasionally unpredictable, and everyone’s got an opinion about it.
Why it helps to know what people actually earn
Your salary impacts everything from rent, travel, and savings, to how often you can afford that cheeky weekend getaway.
If you’re new to the UK, understanding average salaries can be very useful. It helps you spot fair job offers, figure out where you can live comfortably, and manage expectations between cities like London, Manchester, or Cardiff.
A bit of research now means fewer surprises later, and a lot less stress when those first bills arrive. Whether you’re just starting your UK career or ready to level up, understanding the salary landscape helps you plan smarter and feel more confident about your choices.
What’s driving pay in the UK right now
The UK economy is still finding its rhythm after a few unpredictable years. Inflation has cooled off a bit, but prices are still eating into pay rises. This means that while wages are climbing, they don’t always stretch as far as we’d like.
According to the Office for National Statistics (ONS), full-time workers earned around £37,000 a year in 2024 (about £720 a week). By mid-2025, that number had risen, with average weekly earnings hitting £733.
Wage growth has been steady in 2025. Regular pay (excluding bonuses) rose by 4.7%, while total earnings (including bonuses) climbed by 5% during summer 2025. But with inflation around similar levels, the gains don’t always feel as big as they look on paper.
The job market is still buzzing, especially in sectors like healthcare, technology, and engineering, where demand for skilled workers continues to outpace supply. So, if you’ve got in-demand skills, you’ve got options.
The forces shaping your 2026 paycheque
As we head into 2026, a few big factors are setting the tone for salaries across the UK:
- Inflation and recovery: Even as inflation cools, it still nibbles at pay rises. A 5% raise sounds great until you realise living costs have gone up by 4%. The trick is finding roles that grow faster than your grocery bill.
- Skills shortages and automation: The race for talent in tech, healthcare, and green energy means higher wages for skilled workers. Automation is also reshaping some roles and creating new opportunities.
- Remote and hybrid work: More hybrid roles mean you can live outside pricey cities. Some employers now offer equal pay no matter where you live, while others still adjust salaries based on local living costs.
- Government wage policies: Public-sector pay reviews, tax thresholds, and minimum wage increases all influence take-home pay.
What salaries in the UK look like right now
Wages in the UK have been creeping upward, and if you’re skilled and adaptable, there are plenty of jobs to choose from.
How much people are actually earning in 2025
Right now, full-time workers in the UK are earning an average of about £37,000 a year, but that number only tells part of the story. Salaries look very different depending on where you work and what you do. Finance and tech roles can easily hit £45,000–£50,000, while hospitality and retail are often closer to £25,000–£28,000.
Long-term trends point upward, thanks to the growing demand for skilled workers, especially in digital and green sectors. If you’ve got transferable skills or experience in those areas, you’re already one step ahead.
Minimum wage
As of April 2025, the National Living Wage for workers aged 21 and over is £12.21 an hour, which works out to roughly £23,800 a year for a full-time job. That figure is expected to go up again in 2026 to around £12.70 an hour.
And if you’re in London, the London Living Wage is already £13.85 an hour. That’s why you’ll often see employers offering a ‘London weighting’ to help even things out.
Where the money’s going in 2026: the industries to watch
Some industries are racing ahead, while others are still finding their footing. If you know where to look, 2026 could be a great year for your earning potential.
Technology and digital
If there’s one area that’s booming, it’s tech. From data analysts to software engineers, salaries keep rising as companies compete for talent. Entry-level roles start around £25,000–£45,000, mid-career averages hit £40,000–£60,000, and senior experts often earn £80,000+.
Healthcare
With constant demand and staffing gaps, healthcare remains stable and well-paid. Nurses typically earn £28,000–£40,000, while consultants can reach £100,000+. It’s demanding work, but the pay, benefits, and sense of purpose make it worthwhile.
Finance and professional services
Banks, accountants, and consultants are still cashing in. While London remains the hub, other cities like Manchester, Bristol, and Edinburgh are becoming serious contenders with great pay and a lower cost of living.
Most people starting out in this sector can expect £32,000 to £40,000, climbing to £50,000–£70,000 with a few years of experience. Senior professionals can earn £90,000 or more, especially in leadership or niche advisory roles.
Engineering and manufacturing
Green energy and innovation are fuelling demand in the UK’s engineering and manufacturing sectors. Salaries typically range from £30,000–£70,000+, depending on experience and specialisation.
With many companies investing in training and sponsorships, it’s also one of the most accessible paths for international professionals looking to build long-term careers in the UK.
Creative industries
The UK’s creative scene, from marketing and media to design and content, wins on freedom and flexibility. Remote and freelance work are now the norm, with digital agencies hiring talent from everywhere. Entry-level salaries sit around £25,000–£30,000, mid-level pros earn £35,000–£50,000, and senior creatives can make £90,000+.
What you earn depends on where you live
UK salaries don’t stretch the same way everywhere. A £40,000 salary in London might sound great until rent and transport have their say. But take that same amount to Leeds or Glasgow, and suddenly life feels a lot more comfortable.
London and the South East
London is the land of big salaries and even bigger expenses. The average salary sits around £39,000-£47,000, but with rent for a one-bedroom flat often topping £2,000 a month, comfort can be hard-won. Still, the capital remains unbeatable for career growth and networking.
South West England
From Bristol to Exeter, the South West offers an appealing balance of pay and lifestyle. Average salaries sit near £35,600, with strong job growth in tech, education, and healthcare. The cost of living is lower than in London, and the scenery makes it a favourite among professionals seeking a slower pace without losing opportunity.
Scotland
Head north, and the picture changes in your favour. Scotland’s average salary hovers around £38,300, and while that’s below London’s, the cost of living is far more forgiving. Cities like Edinburgh and Glasgow are buzzing with tech startups, creative agencies, and renewable energy projects.
Northern England
The North of England, think Manchester, Leeds, Newcastle, has become the UK’s rising star for digital and media jobs. Salaries sit around £34,000 on average, but the real win is how much further your money goes. Rent, food, and travel costs are all more manageable, meaning you can save while still enjoying a good lifestyle.
Wales and Northern Ireland
Salaries in both countries average £34,300, but affordability and scenery make up for it. Public sector and healthcare roles dominate, while remote work is unlocking new opportunities for professionals who prefer calm to chaos.
How experience shapes your earning power
Whether you’re just starting out, finding your mid-career stride, or leading a team, your pay in the UK tends to rise with your skills and confidence.
Starting out: graduate and entry-level salaries
If you’re new to the UK job market, expect to start around £28,000–£32,000, depending on the field. Tech and engineering usually pay higher, while creative and education roles start lower but offer flexibility and room to grow. The early years are all about building experience and confidence—the foundation for future pay rises.
Mid-career: five to ten years in
With five to ten years’ experience, salaries typically reach £40,000–£55,000, or more if you’ve specialised or moved into management. By this stage, you’ve built networks and know your worth. Switching roles or industries can often speed up growth.
Senior and specialist roles
At the senior level, the sky’s the limit. Experienced managers, consultants, and technical specialists regularly earn £60,000 to £90,000 or more. Many employers also add bonuses, stock options, or flexible benefits, so your total compensation might be much higher than your base pay. This is the point where your career really starts to reward the effort you’ve put in.
What international workers should know about UK salaries
If you’re working in the UK on a visa or planning the move soon, there are a few key things worth knowing about pay and work life.
Visa salary thresholds and eligibility
If you’re on a Skilled Worker visa, your salary usually needs to meet a minimum of around £41,700 per year. Some roles on the shortage occupation list can go lower, which makes it easier to qualify. Think of this as your built-in safety net: it’s not just paperwork, it’s the baseline that protects you from being underpaid.
Recognising your qualifications
You’ve probably worked hard for your degree or licence abroad, so make sure it counts in the UK, too. In fields like nursing, teaching, and engineering, your qualifications need to be officially recognised before you can work at your full level.
It’s a bit of admin, but once it’s done, you’ll have access to better roles and pay. A quick visit to UK ENIC can save you a lot of future headaches.
Taxes and take-home pay
If your first UK payslip made you ask, “Where did all my money go?”, you’re not alone. The Pay As You Earn (PAYE) system takes tax and National Insurance straight from your pay. It helps to use an online salary calculator to see what you’ll actually bring home each month, before rent, bills, and brunch.
Language skills and cultural know-how
Being multilingual is extremely valuable. Many UK companies love hiring people who can connect with international clients, manage global teams, or bring a fresh perspective. Your cultural background is an asset, so don’t be shy about making it part of your story.
Planning your financial future in the UK
Understanding salaries is only half the story; the rest is knowing how to make your money work for you. When comparing offers, check reliable sources like the ONS, Glassdoor, Indeed, or LinkedIn. It also helps to use cost-of-living calculators to see how far your pay will stretch.
You don’t have to be afraid to negotiate; it’s standard here and can make a big difference. Keep investing in your skills too; learning something new can quickly boost your earning power. And once you’re earning, plan ahead. Build an emergency fund, save for your goals, and if you send money home, Remitly can help you do so safely and affordably.
FAQs
What is the average salary in London in 2026?
Around £45,000, though living costs mean real disposable income is lower compared to other regions.
Which industries pay the most in the UK?
Technology, finance, professional services, healthcare specialisms, and green energy lead in average pay.
How much do you need to live comfortably in the UK?
For a single person, around £30,000–£35,000 outside London or £45,000–£50,000 within the capital, depending on lifestyle and location.
Do international workers earn less in the UK?
Pay depends on job type and visa rules, not nationality. As long as you meet visa criteria, salaries should align with local market rates.