UK Average Wage in 2025: A Comprehensive Overview by The Workers Union

The landscape of earnings in the United Kingdom has witnessed notable shifts in 2025, influenced by various economic factors. This report compiled by The Workers Union researchers delves into the current state of average wages, regional disparities, sector-specific trends, and the broader economic context and makes for an interesting read.

Current Average Wage Statistics

As of early 2025, the average weekly earnings (AWE) for full-time employees in the UK stand at £711, encompassing bonuses, while regular pay (excluding bonuses) is at £667. This marks a 5.9% annual increase in regular earnings from the previous year as per The Office for National Statistics (ONS) data.

In annual terms, this translates to an average salary of approximately £37,000 for full-time workers. The median salary across all workers, including part-time roles, is reported at £31,602, reflecting a 7.1% rise from 2023 from information compiled from Beyond Borders Remitly

Regional Variations

Earnings across the UK exhibit significant regional disparities:

• London: The highest average salaries are observed here, with figures around £41,000 annually. Source, Amber
• South East England: Average annual salaries approximate £39,038. Uniccm
• Scotland: Reports indicate average earnings of £38,315 per year. Uniccm
• East England: Salaries average around £36,949 annually. Uniccm
• South West England: The average annual salary is approximately £35,634. Uniccm

These variations are influenced by factors such as cost of living, industry presence, and employment opportunities.

Sector-Specific Insights

Different industries have experienced varied wage growth: The Sun

• Financial & Insurance Activities: Average weekly earnings are reported at £1,356. Office for National Statistics
• Mining & Quarrying: Weekly earnings stand at £1,228.
• Real Estate Activities: Employees earn approximately £645 weekly.
• Food Products, Beverage, and Tobacco: Weekly earnings are around £611. Amberstudent

Notably, the wholesaling, retailing, hotels, and restaurants sector experienced the strongest regular growth rate at 6.8%, followed by construction at 6.2%. Office for National Statistics

Economic Context and Real Wage Growth

While nominal wages have increased from the UK average wage in 2024, real wage growth—adjusted for inflation—paints a more nuanced picture. The Consumer Prices Index including owner occupiers’ housing costs (CPIH) averaged 3.7% for December 2024 to February 2025. Consequently, real regular pay growth was 2.1%, and total pay growth was 1.9% during this period. Office for National Statistics

Economists suggest that households may feel marginally better off in 2025 compared to 2024, as wage growth continues to outpace inflation. However, factors such as higher taxes and living costs may offset these gains for some. Financial Times

Projected Wage Trends

Looking ahead, wage growth is expected to moderate. The average salary increase for 2025 is projected at 5%, a slight decline from previous years. This anticipated slowdown is attributed to factors like increased National Insurance contributions and broader economic conditions. The Sun

The Workers Unions Says…

“The UK has witnessed a steady increase in average wages in 2025, with variations across regions and sectors. While nominal earnings have risen, real wage growth remains modest due to inflation and other economic pressures. As the year progresses, wage growth is expected to stabilize, reflecting a cautious optimism in the economic landscape.”

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