How Much Do Nurses Earn?

NHS nurses enjoy a demanding yet rewarding career in the healthcare sector. There are many types of nursing jobs available in private sector and public sector hospitals, medical centres, and nursing homes. Positions within nursing teams include private nurse, agency nurse, cardiac nurse, modern matron, and occupational health registered nurse.

So, if you are a student contemplating joining the ranks of student nurses and eventually newly qualified nurses, or are already an NHS staff member, our career advice is invaluable in understanding NHS pay bands, average salary, and how to earn more. 

Quick Links:

• How Much Nurses Get Paid - Nurse Salaries

• How Much Nurse Jobs Pay

• How To Earn More As A Nurse

• Nurse Average Salary FAQs
• All Nurse Salaries

Highlights And Key Takeaways:

1. The pay scales for NHS nurses are divided into a banding system with nine levels.
2. The average Nurse salary is £45,213 per year.

HOW MUCH NURSES GET PAID - NURSE SALARIES

Here are the nurse salaries for the most popular NHS nurse jobs:

REGISTERED NURSE PAY

The average salary of a Registered Nurse is £46,100 per year. A Registered Nurse provides medical care and treatment to patients in various healthcare settings. They may work in hospitals, clinics, nursing homes, or private practices.

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CLINICAL NURSE SPECIALIST PAY

The average salary of a Clinical Nurse Specialist is £43,800 per year. A Clinical Nurse Specialist is an advanced practice nurse who has expertise in a specific area of healthcare. They may work in specialist units of hospitals or clinics, providing specialist care to patients with complex medical conditions.

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NURSING HOME NURSE PAY

The average salary of a Nursing Home Nurse is £26,000 per year. A Nursing Home Nurse is responsible for providing medical care and support to residents in a long-term care facility. They help residents with daily activities such as bathing, dressing, and eating and monitor their health and well-being.

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NURSE PAY

The average salary of a Nurse is £48,200 per year. A Nurse is a healthcare professional who provides medical care and treatment to patients. They may work in hospitals, nursing homes, clinics, or private practices.

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REGISTERED MENTAL HEALTH NURSE PAY

The average salary of a Registered Mental Health Nurse is £40,900 per year. A Registered Mental Health Nurse provides medical care and support to patients with mental health conditions. They work in a variety of healthcare settings, including hospitals, community health centres, and clinics.

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NIGHT NURSE PAY

The average salary of a Night Nurse is £44,300 per year. A Night Nurse provides medical care and support to patients during overnight shifts. They may perform their duties in a hospital, clinic, or long-term care facility.

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PRACTICAL NURSE PAY

The average salary of a Practical Nurse is £40,600 per year. A Practical Nurse provides basic medical care and support to patients under the supervision of a registered nurse or physician. They may work in a long-term care facility, hospital, or clinic.

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CLINICAL REGISTERED NURSE PAY

The average salary of a Clinical Registered Nurse is £39,800 per year. A Clinical Registered Nurse is an advanced practice nurse who provides specialist medical care to patients with complex medical conditions. They may work in special units of hospitals or clinics.

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SURGERY NURSE PAY

The average salary of a Surgery Nurse is £39,300 per year. A Surgery Nurse is responsible for providing medical care and support to patients before, during, and after surgical procedures. They help prepare patients for surgery, monitor their vital signs during operations and provide post-surgical care.

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STAFF NURSE PAY

The average salary of a Staff Nurse is £36,500 per year. A Staff Nurse provides medical care and support to patients in various healthcare environments. They work under the supervision of a registered nurse or physician.

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SCHOOL REGISTERED NURSE PAY

The average salary of a School Registered Nurse is £24,500 per year. A School Registered Nurse provides medical care and support to students in schools. They may administer medication, monitor students with chronic health conditions, and provide first aid.

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A&E NURSE PAY

The average salary of an A&E Nurse is £46,000 per year. An A&E Nurse provides medical support and care to patients in the emergency department of a hospital. They help assess patients, provide emergency care, and monitor their vital signs.

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NURSE MANAGER PAY

The average salary of a Nurse Manager is £54,400 per year. A Nurse Manager is responsible for overseeing a team of nurses in a hospital or other healthcare facility. They help develop policies and procedures, ensure patients receive high-quality care, and manage staff schedules and budgets.

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ADVANCED PRACTICE PSYCHIATRIC NURSE PAY

The average salary of an Advanced Practice Psychiatric Nurse is £47,100 per year. An Advanced Practice Psychiatric Nurse is a specialist nurse who provides medical care and support to patients with mental health conditions. They may prescribe medication, provide therapy, and help develop treatment plans.

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HOW MUCH DO NURSE JOBS PAY?

The pay scales for NHS nurses are divided into a banding system with nine levels. The average annual salary varies within each of the nine bands, and the average nurse salary will typically increase annually until they reach the top of the pay band.

As with many industries and business sectors, the NHS band and pay scales system cater to provide extra pay for nursing staff working in high-cost locations, such as in and around London. NHS nurses get paid a 5% of basic salary supplement if they are on the London Fringe. When nurses work in Outer London, the supplement increase to 15%, and for Inner London, 20%. This bonus to the benefits package is subject to minimum and maximum payment limits.

It is worth noting that an NHS nurse enjoys other benefits on top of NHS pay. For example, an NHS nurse has access to NHS discount schemes, annual leave including bank holidays, sick pay, maternity leave, paternity leave, career support, and access to further training courses. Flexible working options and benefits also exist for more than 350 job titles.

HOW TO EARN MORE AS A NURSE

We recommend following our healthcare career advice to advance your career and earn more as an experienced or newly qualified nurse. Our career advice resources include free CV templates and advice on how to ask for a pay rise and avoid a real terms pay cut.

You may earn a higher average wage in the nursing sector through:

• Age: Nurses get paid more as they gain experience, with maximum earnings usually occurring in the age bracket of 40-49.

• Geographical location: Nursing salaries vary by region, so we recommend checking the average salary for areas such as Inner and Outer London and cities across England, Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland.

• Qualifications and skills: Your education (bachelor’s or master’s degree) and earning new qualifications, certifications, and associations can help you secure a pay rise or find a new role advertised internally or on job boards or recruitment sites. Further qualifications and certifications can be secured through the Royal College of Nursing and the Nursing and Midwifery Council.

• Unsociable hours: Working unsociable hours and covering staff shortages may mean you get paid time plus 30-94%.

If you seek one of the highest-paid jobs in the UK, begin your job search here.

Professional Development And Career Progression

In the dynamic and rewarding field of nursing, professional development and career progression are key aspects that contribute to job satisfaction and financial growth. Understanding the average monthly salary, what nurses earn, and how much nurses are paid across different specialisations provides valuable insights into the career trajectory within this noble profession.

The salary ranges for nurses reflect their level of expertise, specialisation, and the critical responsibilities they handle. For those considering a Mental Health Nursing role, the average salary is £40,900 per year. For those looking to become Nurse Consultants, the average salary is an impressive £72,500 per year, and £40,900 for a Learning Disability Nurse, highlighting the value placed on these specialised roles within the healthcare system.

Adult Nurses, who form the backbone of patient care across various settings, can expect to earn an average salary of £42,100 per year. This figure represents the foundational role these professionals play and their importance in delivering comprehensive care.

For nurses who pursue further specialisation, the rewards are substantial. Specialist Nurses, with their advanced skills and knowledge in specific areas of healthcare, earn an average salary of £43,800 per year, reflecting the high demand and the critical nature of their roles.

Lastly, stepping into leadership positions such as Ward Manager offers not only a significant increase in responsibility but also a commensurate salary of £44,400 per year. This role is pivotal in ensuring the smooth operation of hospital wards and the delivery of exceptional patient care.

It’s essential to note that these figures are just starting points. With continued professional development, gaining experience, and taking on more advanced roles, nurses can see their earnings grow, reflecting their invaluable contribution to healthcare. The journey from entry-level positions to highly specialised and leadership roles is marked by a commitment to lifelong learning, dedication to patient care, and the pursuit of excellence in the nursing profession.

This overview of salary ranges and what nurses earn in various roles underscores the diverse opportunities available for professional growth and financial advancement within nursing. Whether you’re just starting your career or looking to take the next step, the nursing profession offers a fulfilling path with competitive compensation and the chance to make a significant impact on people’s lives.

How Much Do Nurses Get Paid In Private Healthcare?

In the ever-evolving landscape of healthcare, the private sector offers a unique environment for UK nurses, including those working in private hospitals and as health visitors. The question of compensation in these settings is a common one, as professionals seek to understand the rewards and opportunities available outside the public NHS framework.

Nurses in private healthcare are compensated based on a variety of factors, including their experience, specialisation, and the specific demands of their role. As of the latest data, nurses in private healthcare can earn up to £68,255 per year. This figure represents the upper echelon of nursing salaries within private settings and highlights the potential for financial growth and advancement in these roles.

The allure of working in private hospitals or as health visitors in the private sector is not only in the salary. It often includes a range of benefits such as flexible working hours, opportunities for professional development, and sometimes, a more personalised approach to patient care due to lower patient-to-nurse ratios. These aspects contribute to the overall appeal of the private healthcare sector for many nursing professionals.

Private healthcare institutions are known for their focus on delivering high-quality patient care, often with access to advanced technologies and treatment methods. This environment offers nurses a unique opportunity to work at the forefront of healthcare innovation, further enhancing their skills and career prospects.

For UK nurses considering a move to the private sector, it’s important to weigh the benefits and potential salary against your career goals and personal values. The opportunity to earn a competitive salary, coupled with the chance to develop professionally and work in a potentially more dynamic and resource-rich setting, makes private healthcare an attractive option for many.

In summary, nurses in the private healthcare sector have the potential to earn up to £68,255 per year, with salary levels varying based on role, experience, and location. This competitive compensation, along with the benefits associated with private sector employment, positions private healthcare as a viable and attractive career path for nurses seeking advancement and growth opportunities.

UK Nurse: Work Life Balance

Achieving a harmonious work-life balance is a crucial aspect of any profession, but it holds particular significance for those in the demanding and rewarding field of nursing. For UK nurses, whether working in a bustling hospital setting or as a community-based health visitor, the quest for balance between professional duties and personal life is a continuous journey.

The hospital setting, with its fast-paced environment and round-the-clock shifts, presents unique challenges to maintaining a healthy work-life balance. Nurses in these settings often face long hours and the emotional toll of providing care in high-stakes situations. However, many hospitals are increasingly recognising the importance of supporting their staff in this regard. Initiatives such as flexible scheduling, wellness programs, and mental health support services are being implemented to help nurses manage the pressures of the job while ensuring they have ample time and resources to recharge and focus on their well-being outside of work.

Health visitors, on the other hand, operate in a role that inherently offers a different set of challenges and opportunities for balancing professional and personal life. As nurses who support families in the community, health visitors often have more control over their schedules, allowing for a degree of flexibility not always available in hospital settings. This autonomy can facilitate a better work-life balance, enabling them to manage their caseloads in a way that accommodates personal commitments and activities.

Regardless of the setting, UK nurses are finding that a healthy work-life balance is not only beneficial for their own well-being but also enhances their ability to provide high-quality care. Employers and professional bodies within the nursing sector are increasingly prioritising this balance, recognising that a well-supported nursing workforce is essential to the sustainability of high-quality healthcare.

For nurses striving to achieve this balance, it’s important to utilise available resources, communicate openly with employers about needs and challenges, and prioritise self-care. Engaging in hobbies, spending time with loved ones, and ensuring adequate rest are all critical components of maintaining well-being in this emotionally and physically demanding profession.

In conclusion, the quest for work-life balance is a key consideration for UK nurses, whether navigating the complexities of a hospital setting or the community-focused role of a health visitor. By advocating for supportive workplace practices and prioritising personal well-being, nurses can achieve a balance that sustains both their professional fulfilment and their life outside work. This equilibrium not only benefits the nurses themselves but also the patients they serve, as a well-balanced nurse is better equipped to provide compassionate, effective care.

NURSE AVERAGE SALARY FAQS

Here we answer your questions on nurse salaries and pay.

HOW MUCH IS A NURSE PAID IN THE UK?

In the UK, nurses are paid according to the National Health Service (NHS) pay scale, which is determined by their band and experience level. The pay scale is reviewed and updated each year.

WHAT IS STARTING SALARY FOR NURSES UK?

The starting salary for newly qualified nurses, agency nurses, and private nurses in the UK varies depending on their location, experience, and job title. Generally, a newly qualified nurse (band 5) can expect to start on a salary of around £27,055 per year. However, this can vary depending on the location and type of nursing job.

WHAT DO BAND 7 NURSES EARN?

Band 7 nurses are experienced nurses who are responsible for managing and leading teams. They earn a salary of between £41,659 and £47,672 per year, although this can vary depending on location and experience.

WHAT IS THE HIGHEST PAID NURSING JOB UK?

National statistics indicate the highest-paid nursing job in the UK is that of the director of nursing, who can earn between £40,000 and £124,000 per year. Other roles where nurse earn a good hourly rate include consultant nurses, advanced nurse practitioners, private nurses, agency nurses, chief nurse, consultant-level nurses, and intensive care nurses.

HOW MUCH DOES A NEWLY QUALIFIED NURSE EARN? / WHAT DOES A NEWLY QUALIFIED NURSE EARN?

A newly qualified nurse embarks on their career journey with a basic pay of £28,407 per year. This starting salary reflects the essential role nurses play in healthcare settings, acknowledging the comprehensive education and training they have undergone. As nurses progress in their careers, taking on more responsibilities and advancing through nursing roles, there’s potential for this figure to increase, reflecting their growing expertise and contributions to patient care.

IS NURSING A HIGH PAYING JOB UK?

Nursing in the UK offers a competitive salary that recognises the skill, dedication, and compassion required in this vital healthcare profession. While the basic pay for newly qualified nurses starts at £28,407, experienced nurses can earn significantly more as they ascend through various nursing roles and specialisations. The nursing profession also provides a robust career ladder that rewards experience, specialisation, and leadership roles with higher pay scales. Thus, while the starting salary may not be considered ‘high-paying’ in comparison to some other professions, nursing offers a rewarding career path with the opportunity for financial growth and job satisfaction.

WHAT IS A BAND 9 NURSE?

A Band 9 nurse represents the pinnacle of the NHS Agenda for Change pay scale, occupying the most senior nursing roles within the UK healthcare system. These roles are typically reserved for highly experienced and specialised nursing professionals who demonstrate exceptional expertise in their field. Band 9 nurses often hold leadership positions, such as director of nursing or consultant nurse roles, contributing strategic oversight and innovation in clinical practice and healthcare delivery. Their salary reflects the significant responsibility and expert knowledge required at this level, making it the apex of nursing career progression. For individuals looking to search for jobs at this level, it’s essential to have a robust background in clinical excellence, leadership, and continuous professional development.

ALL NURSE SALARIES

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