Salary guide · UK
Nurse Salary in UK
Quick answer
NHS nurse salaries follow the Agenda for Change pay bands: newly qualified nurses start at Band 5 (around £29,000–£35,000), with senior and specialist nurses at Bands 6–7 (£37,000–£54,000) and advanced and leadership roles higher. Pay is structured by band and experience, with extra for high-cost areas like London.
Overview
NHS nursing pay is set nationally by Agenda for Change, giving transparent progression by band. Specialisation, advanced practice and leadership move nurses up the bands, and high-cost-area supplements apply in places like London.
Nurse salary bands
| Level | Typical range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Band 5 (Newly qualified) | £29,000 – £35,000 | Registered nurse; progresses within band. |
| Band 6 (Senior / specialist) | £37,000 – £45,000 | Specialist or senior staff nurse. |
| Band 7 (Advanced / lead) | £46,000 – £54,000 | Advanced practice, ward or team lead. |
| Band 8+ (Leadership) | £55,000 – £75,000+ | Matron, consultant nurse, management. |
Figures are indicative market ranges for guidance, not guarantees. Actual pay varies by employer, location and individual circumstances.
What drives pay
How to negotiate
- Pay is banded — progression comes via experience and moving up bands.
- Pursue specialist or advanced-practice routes for higher bands.
- Factor in high-cost-area supplements where applicable.
- Bank and agency shifts can supplement substantive pay.
Frequently asked questions
What band is a newly qualified nurse?
Newly qualified NHS nurses start at Band 5 on the Agenda for Change scale, typically around £29,000–£35,000, with higher pay in high-cost areas.
How do nurses increase their salary?
By progressing within and between Agenda for Change bands through experience, specialisation, advanced practice and leadership roles.
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