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Income

Ok, let's get right to the point. Whether you're a recent graduate entering the workforce or an experienced professional seeking new opportunities, knowing what to expect in terms of compensation is crucial.

Salaries in the UK vary depending on factors such as location, industry, and experience, it's essential to research average income ranges to ensure that you're being fairly compensated for your skills and expertise. Besides that, it's important to know that when we talk about income in the United Kingdom, we generally refer to annual income, whether you receive it weekly or monthly. In other words, you earn x amount per year, which is divided over the specific period outlined in your employment contract.

Where to get a job

You can get a job directly with the company or through employment agencies

Directly

You can find opportunities and apply through websites such as Linkedin, Indeed, Total Jobs, etc or on the company's website. It's common to have fixed-term contracts for jobs (3 months, 6 months, 1 year, etc.) and the company can choose to renew or not your contract at the end of the term. Finding a job without agency can be great if you're looking for something more long-term as this type of contract can be more valuable for your life in the UK (opening bank accounts, renting a flat, etc) and you can grow inside the company (get promoted, get an income raise, etc).

Agency

They act as a bridge between workers and companies. You apply to work with the agency and they place you in a company. If, for instance, you're no longer needed at company X, the agency quickly places you in another company (often within 2 or 3 days). It's common to have a “Zero hours contract” (which means that the agency will get a job for you but they're not responsible for any minimum weekly working hours or income) It's the best option if you want to start working quickly but could not be the best option if you're looking for a long-term career - you don't have sick pays, security, annual bonus, maternity leave, etc.

The average income

The latest government data (March 2024) reveals that the annual average UK salary is around £34,900 (pre-tax).

Workers aged between 40-49 have the highest median weekly pay (£770 for full-time gross pay). Younger earners under the age of 30 earn around 25% less than workers aged over 40.

Regarding location, London salaries are highest for all age groups over 22 and Scottish wages tend to be higher.

As to occupation, workers in managerial and professional occupations have the highest salaries, health professionals earn slightly more on average than teaching and education professionals, and the leisure and travel sector has some of the lowest weekly wages. Websites like Glassdoor and Indeed offer valuable insights into salary benchmarks across different job roles and sectors if you want to know more.

It's important to note that the United Kingdom has high taxes. When we say high, we mean it's really high! For example, a salary of £2,500 will be approximately £1,900 after tax reductions.

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Median annual earnings for full-time employees in the United Kingdom, by industry sector, before taxes

Source: Statista

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Living Expenses

When we move to another country, we can anticipate some expenses — we know that we'll have to pay rent, electricity bills, gas bills, transportation, food, etc.—right? However, we often make the mistake of not researching the actual cost of living in that location, the ones that don't exist in your country. In the UK, some of these unexpected bills are the TV License (a monthly tax if you have a TV or a computer at home) and the Council Tax (an expensive tax to pay for living in the city that you'll live in that includes your bin collection for example).

Besides, when it comes to living expenses, not all cities in the UK are created equal. While London may offer unparalleled career opportunities and cultural experiences, it also comes with a hefty price tag. Rent prices in the capital are among the highest in the world, making it challenging for many residents to afford a comfortable standard of living.

However, beyond London, there are plenty of other cities in the UK that offer a more affordable alternative. Cities like Manchester, Birmingham, and Edinburgh boast thriving job markets, vibrant communities, and lower living costs compared to the capital. By exploring these options, you can find a city that aligns with your lifestyle preferences and financial goals without breaking the bank.

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Fixed Expenses

• Rent: This number varies greatly depending on the area. A studio apartment in the centre of big cities can exceed £1000/month. However, 20 minutes away from the city centre or in small towns, you can find a great flat or house at half of this price.
  

• Council Tax: It's an annual fee that can be divided over the months of the year and is related to the housing tax. In other words, it's a tax that goes to the local council where you live to cover the costs of waste disposal, street lighting, road maintenance, etc.

• Internet and TV: This is a relatively low cost compared to other countries. For example, you can find deals for £64, including cable TV with over 200 channels and fast internet with 500 Mbps.

• TV Licence: This is the fee for the use of television broadcasting. This fee also applies to those who do not watch television but watch live videos on YouTube or streaming such as Netflix.

• Electricity and gas: You can choose the company you want to contract with and pay the average monthly consumption. Depending on the average, you can increase or decrease the amount paid to the company. Summer months tend to be much cheaper!

• Water: The amount you'll pay depends on where you live and if you have a water meter. The average water bill in the UK is £37 a month, according to Water UK.

• Gym: The typical gym membership costs around £40 a month, but this can vary wildly. Membership fees range depending on several factors. Some charge just £15 a month while others stretch into hundreds of pounds.

• Phone: A cheap SIM-only deal is a contract that gets you an allowance of data, calls and texts for a low monthly charge – typically between £5 to £10. The difference from traditional pay-monthly phone deals is that with SIM-only deals, you don't get a new phone.
  

• Public Transportation: The average price fare of buses is between £2.4 to 6 for every bus ride. You can find the best prices if you pay monthly as it’s typically between £60 to £90 and you can travel unlimited.
  

Examples per Month (for a couple)

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Groceries

This is - for us - the biggest difference between living in another country and living in England.

If you live alone, for example, it's possible to easily survive in the UK with only £40 per week. If we eat meat every day, enjoy drinking wine, and eat quality chocolate, this amount can increase. However, let's say we live a luxurious life, even then this amount hardly reaches £90 per week.

Another thing that varies is the supermarket where we like to shop. Discount chains like Aldi and Lidl have the best prices, sometimes costing half the price of other chains. Meanwhile, supermarkets like Asda, Morrison, and Tesco have a wider variety of "expensive" products such as wines, meats, and cheeses.

In our household, we try to stick to a spending rule of around £15 per day during the week and vary from £20 to £25 per day on weekends, for two people. And for us, this is also an indicator of food quality. This is because the more natural the food is, the cheaper it tends to be! Ultra-processed foods are usually more expensive.

Hygiene and cleaning products are more expensive compared to food, so we tend to buy them separately, spending around £40 every 1 or 2 months.

Want to know more? We've compiled a list with the prices of some products!

Fresh & Chilled Food

Food Cupboard

Soft Drinks

Chocolate Spreads

Our Recommendation

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Other Expenses

Examples (average)

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Free Services in the UK

In a world where costs seem to spiral endlessly upward, it's refreshing to know that there are still plenty of treasures to be found without reaching for your wallet. The United Kingdom, with its rich history and commitment to public welfare, offers a plethora of free services that are not only accessible but also invaluable to its residents and visitors alike.

From world-class museums to universal healthcare, the UK stands out as a beacon of accessibility and inclusivity. In this comprehensive guide, we'll delve into the myriad offerings that won't cost you a penny, showcasing the wealth of opportunities available in this remarkable country.

1. Museums and Galleries

One of the crown jewels of the UK's cultural landscape is its extensive network of museums and galleries, many of which offer free admission to their collections. Whether you're a history buff, an art aficionado, or simply curious about the world around you, there's something for everyone to explore.

In London alone, iconic institutions such as the British Museum, the National Gallery, and the Tate Modern welcome millions of visitors each year, all without charging an entry fee. Delve into the depths of ancient civilizations, marvel at masterpieces from renowned artists, and immerse yourself in contemporary creativity, all while enjoying the freedom of access that these institutions provide.

Beyond the capital, cities and towns across the UK boast their own cultural gems, from the Manchester Art Gallery to the Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum in Glasgow. Whether you're interested in science, natural history, or local heritage, you'll find a wealth of options to satisfy your curiosity without spending a penny.

2. Healthcare

Arguably one of the most significant benefits of living in the UK is access to its National Health Service (NHS), a comprehensive healthcare system that provides medical care to residents regardless of their ability to pay. From routine check-ups to life-saving treatments, the NHS is there to ensure that everyone has access to the care they need when they need it.

No matter your age, income, or background, you can rest assured knowing that your health is in good hands. Whether you require a visit to your local GP, emergency care at a hospital, or ongoing treatment for a chronic condition, the NHS offers a range of services that are free at the point of use, funded through taxation rather than individual fees or insurance premiums.

3. Parks and Green Spaces

In a world that's increasingly urbanized, the importance of access to nature cannot be overstated. Fortunately, the UK boasts an abundance of parks and green spaces that offer respite from the hustle and bustle of city life, providing opportunities for relaxation, recreation, and connection with the natural world.

From the sprawling expanses of Hyde Park in London to the rugged beauty of the Peak District National Park, there's no shortage of places to explore and enjoy without spending a penny. Whether you're picnicking with friends, taking a leisurely stroll, or simply soaking up the scenery, these green oases offer a welcome escape from the concrete jungle.

4. Educational Resources

In an age where knowledge is more accessible than ever before, the UK offers a wealth of educational resources that are freely available to all. From online courses and tutorials to public lectures and workshops, there are countless opportunities to learn and grow without spending a penny

Platforms like OpenLearn and FutureLearn offer a wide range of courses taught by experts from leading universities and institutions, covering topics ranging from literature and history to science and technology. Whether you're looking to acquire new skills, further your career, or simply satisfy your intellectual curiosity, the possibilities are endless.

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