UK Salary Percentile Calculator
Discover where your salary stands compared to other workers across the United Kingdom. This calculator uses the latest ONS data to show you exactly how your earnings compare.
You Earn More Than
Median Salary
Top 10% Threshold
Did you find this calculator helpful?
How to Use This Calculator
Getting your salary percentile is straightforward. Follow these steps to get accurate results that reflect your position in the UK earnings distribution.
- Enter your annual gross salary before tax deductions. This is the amount shown on your employment contract or P60.
- Select whether you work full-time (over 30 hours weekly) or part-time, or choose all workers to see the broadest comparison.
- Pick your region to see how you compare locally, as salaries vary significantly across the UK, with London typically highest.
- Choose your age group for additional context, though this is optional. Earnings typically peak between 40-49 years old.
- Click calculate to see your percentile, which shows what percentage of workers earn less than you do.
What Your Percentile Means
Your salary percentile tells you where you stand in the UK income distribution. If you’re in the 70th percentile, it means you earn more than 70% of workers in your selected category.
| Percentile | Approximate Salary | What This Means |
|---|---|---|
| 10th | £22,800 | Entry level or part-time positions |
| 25th | £26,500 | Below average earnings |
| 50th (Median) | £39,800 | Middle of the distribution |
| 75th | £54,200 | Above average earnings |
| 90th | £72,100 | High earner threshold |
| 95th | £90,000 | Very high earner |
Behind the Numbers
Data Sources and Methodology
This calculator uses data from the Office for National Statistics (ONS) Annual Survey of Hours and Earnings (ASHE), which surveys approximately 180,000 employees each year. The dataset represents the most authoritative source for UK earnings statistics.
We apply equivalisation adjustments where appropriate, meaning we account for differences in household size and composition. A single person needs less income than a family of four to maintain the same living standard.
Regional Variations
London consistently shows the highest salaries, with median full-time earnings around £49,700, roughly 25% higher than the national average. This reflects higher living costs, particularly housing. The North East and Wales typically have the lowest median salaries at approximately £38,300.
Age and Experience
Your age significantly impacts earnings. Workers aged 22-29 typically earn about 25% less than those over 40. Peak earning years are usually 40-49, when median salaries reach approximately £44,800. After 50, median earnings often plateau or decline slightly.
Public vs Private Sector
As of 2025, public sector workers earn a median of £807.67 weekly (£42,000 annually) compared to £752.28 (£39,100 annually) for private sector workers. Both sectors have seen similar growth rates of around 5.3% year-on-year.
Frequently Asked Questions
Making Sense of Your Results
Below 25th Percentile
If you’re in this range, your earnings are below three-quarters of workers in your category. This might be normal if you’re just starting your career, working part-time by choice, or in an entry-level role. Consider whether additional training, qualifications, or experience could help you progress.
25th to 50th Percentile
You’re earning less than average but not in the lowest bracket. Many workers spend time in this range during their career progression. If you’ve been in your role for several years without advancement, it might be worth exploring opportunities for salary negotiation or job mobility.
50th to 75th Percentile
You’re earning above the median, which means you’re doing better than most workers. This is often the range for experienced professionals in stable careers. You’re likely comfortable financially, though perhaps not reaching high earner status.
75th to 90th Percentile
You’re in the upper earnings bracket, earning more than three-quarters of workers. This typically reflects senior positions, specialised skills, or in-demand professions. You’re financially comfortable and likely have good career progression opportunities.
Above 90th Percentile
You’re a high earner, in the top 10% of workers. This usually means senior management, specialist professional roles, or highly sought-after expertise. Your financial position is strong compared to the vast majority of the UK workforce.
Common Misconceptions
Higher percentile always means better
Not necessarily. Someone in the 40th percentile working 30 hours weekly with excellent benefits might have better quality of life than someone in the 80th percentile working 60-hour weeks under high stress. Consider your hourly rate, benefits, pension, and work conditions alongside your salary figure.
My percentile should match my experience
Career progression isn’t linear. You might have 15 years’ experience but be in the 50th percentile due to industry, region, or career choices. Equally, someone with 5 years in tech or finance might be in the 75th percentile. Experience matters, but so do industry, location, and market demand.
I need to be above 50th percentile
By definition, half of all workers are below the median. Being below 50th percentile doesn’t indicate failure – it might reflect early career stage, part-time work, or working in lower-paid but valuable sectors like care, education, or charity work.
London salaries mean Londoners are richer
Whilst London shows the highest nominal salaries, living costs – especially housing – consume much of that premium. Someone earning £35,000 in Newcastle might have more disposable income than someone earning £45,000 in London after housing costs.