Is 35k A Good Salary In The UK? Detailed Analysis

Discussing salaries can often feel like navigating a minefield, particularly when trying to determine if a certain income level is ‘good’. What might be considered a good salary in one country, or even one city, could be viewed as inadequate in another. Understanding this, we’ll delve into the question: Is £35,000 a good salary in the UK?

This is an important question for those considering a job in the UK, or those already working there looking to benchmark their earnings. It can also help individuals make informed decisions about their career path and lifestyle choices. Let’s begin by exploring the broader economic context.

Understanding the UK Economy

The UK, being the fifth-largest economy in the world, boasts a robust and diverse economic structure. It has strong sectors in finance, manufacturing, construction, and services, which all contribute to its overall economic strength.

The cost of living in the UK, however, can vary dramatically depending on location. For instance, the cost of living in London, one of the world’s most expensive cities, is significantly higher than in other areas of the country. Housing, in particular, is notably expensive in the capital and other large cities such as Edinburgh and Manchester. On the other hand, areas in the North of England, Wales, and parts of Scotland tend to have a lower cost of living.

Moreover, the UK tax system is progressive. This means that the more you earn, the higher the percentage of your income you’ll pay in tax. For an income of £35,000, the first £12,570 (as of the 2021/2022 tax year) is tax-free due to the personal allowance. The remainder is taxed at 20%, as it falls within the basic rate band.

Is 35k A Good Salary In The UK?

The average salary in the UK can provide a useful benchmark to determine whether £35,000 is a good salary. As of 2021, the median gross annual earnings for full-time employees was approximately £31,000, according to the Office for National Statistics (ONS).

This means that an annual income of £35,000 is above the median and average, placing those earners in a relatively favourable position nationwide. Therefore, a £35,000 salary can be considered good.

However, it’s important to remember that these averages take into account a wide range of jobs and sectors, including those at both the lower and higher end of the wage scale.

Occupation and industry can dramatically influence earnings. For instance, employees in finance and insurance tend to have the highest wages, while those in accommodation and food services are often at the lower end of the scale. Moreover, a person’s role and level of responsibility within their job significantly affect their salary. Therefore, while £35,000 might be a good starting salary for a new graduate, it might be seen as less impressive for someone with many years of experience or in a senior role.

There’s also a notable disparity in earnings between regions. Earnings tend to be higher in London and the South East compared to other regions. Consequently, a £35,000 salary might go further and be considered ‘better’ in a region with lower average wages.

In summary, a £35,000 salary is good relative to the national average, but various factors, including industry, occupation, experience, and location, can influence this perception. The next section will delve into how the cost of living in different parts of the UK impacts the purchasing power of a £35,000 salary.

What Does a £35,000 Salary Mean?

A £35,000 salary, at face value, might sound impressive, but to understand its real value, we need to consider how much of that salary you actually take home after taxes, and what it translates to on a monthly basis.

As mentioned earlier, the UK operates on a progressive tax system. From the £35,000, you would be taxed 20% on anything above the personal allowance (as of 2021/2022, this is £12,570). Therefore, your net (after-tax) income would be around £29,870. On a monthly basis, this amounts to approximately £2,489.

This post-tax salary is what you have to cover your living costs, savings, and any discretionary spending. Depending on your personal circumstances – such as whether you have dependents, or loans and debts to pay off – the adequacy of this income may vary.

The Cost of Living in Various UK Cities

Living costs can vary dramatically across the UK. For example, the cost of living in London is significantly higher than in most other parts of the country. According to Numbeo, as of mid-2023, the cost of living in London, excluding rent, is over 35% higher than in cities such as Liverpool or Sheffield.

The biggest single expense for most people is housing. Rent for a one-bedroom city centre apartment in London can easily exceed £1,500 per month. In contrast, in cities such as Leeds or Newcastle, you could find a similar apartment for around £700.

Other costs such as groceries, transportation, and leisure activities also tend to be higher in London and other large cities. Thus, a £35,000 salary, while still above the national average, might not stretch very far in these areas.

On the other hand, in smaller cities or towns, especially in Northern England, Scotland, or Wales, your money can go a lot further. Lower housing costs mean you can afford a larger home or even save towards buying a property. Other living costs, such as groceries and eating out, are also generally more affordable.

Lifestyle on a £35,000 Salary

The lifestyle you can afford on a £35,000 salary depends on your individual circumstances, including your location, personal financial commitments, and lifestyle choices.

If you live in London or another expensive city, you may find that a large portion of your income goes towards rent or mortgage payments, and you have less left over for other expenses. You may need to budget carefully to cover necessities such as groceries, utility bills, transportation costs, and save for the future.

However, if you live in a more affordable area, you may find that you can comfortably cover your living costs and have a good amount left over for discretionary spending and saving. You might be able to afford regular meals out, holidays, and other luxuries, and still be able to put some money aside each month.

It’s also important to consider other factors, such as job satisfaction, work-life balance, and career prospects. These can all contribute to your overall quality of life and sense of financial well-being. Even on a relatively modest salary, you can enjoy a good lifestyle if you manage your money wisely and prioritize what is most important to you.

Considerations Beyond the Salary

While a £35,000 salary can provide a comfortable lifestyle, particularly outside of the most expensive cities, it’s essential to remember that money isn’t everything. The overall benefits that come with a job can significantly impact your happiness and satisfaction levels.

For instance, a company may offer excellent non-salary benefits, such as flexible working arrangements, generous holiday allowances, health insurance, or a strong pension scheme. These can often compensate for a lower salary.

Similarly, factors like job satisfaction, the scope for career growth, and work-life balance are crucial to consider. You may be earning £35,000 doing a job you love, with a great team and good work-life balance. In contrast, a higher-paying job might come with longer hours, more stress, or less enjoyment, which can affect your quality of life.

Conclusion

So, is £35,000 a good salary in the UK? The answer largely depends on individual circumstances, including location, lifestyle preferences, career goals, and personal finances. Nationally, it sits above the median wage, making it a good salary on a broad scale.

However, in expensive cities like London, this salary may not stretch far, particularly with high housing costs. In contrast, in more affordable areas, it can provide a comfortable lifestyle with room for discretionary spending and savings.

Beyond the number itself, remember to consider other factors like job satisfaction, career growth potential, work-life balance, and additional benefits. While £35,000 can offer a comfortable lifestyle in many parts of the UK, the “goodness” of a salary is ultimately a very personal measure, influenced by more than just money.