How Much Is A Good Salary In The UK?

Welcome to the age of Gen Z. We’re all about chasing dreams, but let’s be real - our dreams don't always pay well! So, the burning question in every young Brit’s mind is: How much is a good salary in the UK?

Well, buckle up. We’re about to break this answer down for you, including some tasty titbits for how to navigate the modern job market.

If you are thinking about getting a job want to maximise how much you earn, Prograd's algorithm matches you with hundreds of opportunities near you. Simply fill in our 10-second form and get started today.

What Minimum Salary Do You Need In The UK?

Alright, we get it, you’re itching to know what’s up with a good UK salary, but let’s not jump the gun!

To figure out what’s good in the UK salary game, let’s start by looking at what it takes to get by in the UK. Then, we’ll level up from there.

So, first things first, let’s talk about the UK National Minimum Wage. If you’re just stepping into the workforce, chances are you’ll land a gig paying something close to the bare minimum.

As of 2023, if you’re 18 to 20, you’re looking at £7.49. For those ages 21 to 22, it bumps up to £10.18. And once you hit the grand age of 23, you’re rolling in the big leagues with a whopping £10.42!

Now, the minimum wage is designed to keep the lights on and food on the table. It might not be baller status, but it's nothing to be sniffed at. And if budgeting isn’t your strong suit, why not check out platforms like Prograd? They’ve got your back!

What Defines A Good Salary In The UK?

So, what makes a salary good in the UK, you ask? Well, that’s a tricky one because it’s kinda subjective.

To give you any kinda answer, we need to run through the factors of what can define a good UK salary. It all depends on various factors, including your location, lifestyle, and financial goals. All that stuff.

Let’s take a look at what factors play into that magic number:

• Location and Cost of Living - The cost of living in the UK is a real headache, and it varies depending on where you’re at. Big cities, like London and Edinburgh, will hit your wallet harder with rent, bills, and the whole transport shebang.
• Lifestyle - Are you living that high-rolling life, dining out every night and hitting up happy hour every Friday? Got a crazy commute or a family to support? Your lifestyle can put some serious pressure on your bank balance!
• Industry and Career - This one's a no-brainer. What's considered good money varies depending on the industry and job you're in.
• Work-Life Balance - Remember, getting a fat paycheck shouldn't mess with your peace of mind. If you’re in a high-stress job, yes your salary may be high - but is this good? Not always! Your health and happiness comes first.
• Financial Goals - Your long-term cash dreams play a role too. Are you saving to buy a house? Or, maybe a sweet ride? Then a good salary will need to cover your immediate needs as well as your future goals.

So, What Is A Good UK Salary?

There, hopefully, our list should make one thing clear - it’s not a one-size-fits-all deal.

What constitutes a good UK salary isn’t one ballpoint figure. But if you're pulling in at least the minimum wage and it's enough to keep your ship afloat, that's a solid start. Keep in mind, first jobs don't always come with fat stacks, but as you level up in your career, your idea of a "good" salary usually levels up too!

Conclusion

So, what is a good salary in the UK these days? Well, it’s really all about your lifestyle, goals, and where you wanna live, etc. Sure, most of us would (ofc) want to earn a good salary, but salary is just one piece of the puzzle.

Benefits, perks, and being happy in your job all matter too. Just keep hustling, and we know you'll find that sweet spot where your salary aligns with your dreams.