UK Minimum Wage 2026
The current UK National Minimum Wage and National Living Wage rates, live counter of total minimum wage paid today, full rate history since 1999, and calculator tools. All rates shown are for 2026.
UK Minimum Wage Rates — All Age Groups 2026
| Age Group | Hourly Rate | Weekly (37.5hrs) | Annual (full time) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 21 and over (National Living Wage) | £12.21 | £457.88 | £23,809.50 |
| 18 to 20 | £10.00 | £375.00 | £19,500.00 |
| Under 18 | £7.55 | £283.12 | £14,722.50 |
| Apprentice | £7.55 | £283.12 | £14,722.50 |
Rates effective April 2026. Source: Low Pay Commission / GOV.UK
Minimum Wage History — UK Since 1999
| Date | Adult Rate (21+) | Youth (18-20) | Under 18 | Apprentice |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| April 2026 | £12.21 | £10.00 | £7.55 | £7.55 |
| April 2025 | £12.21 | £10.00 | £7.55 | £7.55 |
| April 2024 | £11.44 | £8.60 | £6.40 | £6.40 |
| April 2023 | £10.42 | £7.49 | £5.28 | £5.28 |
| April 2022 | £9.50 | £6.83 | £4.81 | £4.81 |
| April 2021 | £8.91 | £8.36 | £4.62 | £4.30 |
| April 2020 | £8.72 | £8.20 | £4.55 | £4.15 |
| April 2019 | £8.21 | £7.70 | £4.35 | £3.90 |
| April 2018 | £7.83 | £7.38 | £5.90 | £3.70 |
| April 2017 | £7.50 | £7.05 | £5.60 | £3.50 |
| April 2016 | £7.20 | £6.70 | £5.30 | £3.30 |
| October 2015 | £6.70 | £5.30 | £3.87 | £3.30 |
| October 2010 | £5.93 | £4.92 | £3.64 | £2.50 |
| October 2005 | £5.05 | £4.25 | £3.00 | £3.00 |
| April 1999 | £3.60 | — | £3.00 | £3.00 |
About the UK Minimum Wage
The National Minimum Wage (NMW) is the minimum hourly rate most workers in the UK are legally entitled to be paid. The National Living Wage (NLW) is the higher rate that applies to workers aged 21 and over. Both are set annually by the government following recommendations from the Low Pay Commission.
The NMW was introduced on 1 April 1999 at £3.60 per hour for adults. Since then it has increased every year. The National Living Wage was introduced in April 2016 for workers aged 25 and over, then extended to workers aged 23+ in 2021 and 21+ in 2024.
The Real Living Wage (£13.85/hr) and London Living Wage (£15.75/hr) are independently calculated rates based on the actual cost of living. They are voluntary — employers can choose to pay them but are not legally required to.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the minimum wage in the UK 2026?
The UK National Living Wage (for workers aged 21 and over) is £12.21 per hour from April 2026. For 18-20 year olds the rate is £10.00/hr. For workers under 18 and apprentices the rate is £7.55/hr.
What is the difference between minimum wage and living wage?
The National Minimum Wage (NMW) is the legal minimum set by the government. The National Living Wage (NLW) is the higher legal minimum for workers aged 21+. The Real Living Wage (£13.85/hr) and London Living Wage (£15.75/hr) are voluntary rates set by the Living Wage Foundation based on actual living costs — higher than the legal minimum.
When did the minimum wage increase in 2026?
The latest minimum wage increase took effect on 1 April 2026. The National Living Wage rose to £12.21/hr for workers aged 21 and over. Minimum wage rates are reviewed annually by the Low Pay Commission and increases take effect each April.
How much is minimum wage per year?
At £12.21/hr for a standard 37.5-hour week, the annual minimum wage salary is approximately £23,809. Working 40 hours per week gives £25,397 per year. Part-time workers receive proportionally less based on hours worked.
Who sets the UK minimum wage?
The UK minimum wage is set by the government following recommendations from the Low Pay Commission (LPC), an independent body of employer, worker and academic representatives. The LPC reviews evidence each year and recommends rates to the Secretary of State for Business.