Nurse Salary UK 2026
NHS nurse salaries by pay band, from Band 5 newly qualified nurses to Band 8 senior nurses. Includes Scotland, Wales and private sector rates.
NHS Nurse Pay Bands 2026
| Grade / Level | Annual Salary | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Band 2 | £23,615 – £25,674 | Healthcare Support Worker |
| Band 3 | £24,071 – £25,674 | Senior Healthcare Support Worker |
| Band 4 | £26,530 – £29,114 | Nursing Associate |
| Band 5 | £29,970 – £36,483 | Staff Nurse (newly qualified) |
| Band 6 | £37,338 – £44,962 | Senior Staff Nurse / Specialist |
| Band 7 | £46,148 – £52,809 | Advanced Nurse Practitioner |
| Band 8a | £53,755 – £60,504 | Consultant Nurse / Senior Manager |
| Band 8b | £58,972 – £68,525 | Senior Consultant Nurse |
| Band 9 | £105,385+ | Director of Nursing |
Figures are estimates based on ONS ASHE data, sector surveys and advertised salaries. Individual salaries will vary.
About Nurse Salary Pay
NHS nurses are paid on the Agenda for Change (AfC) pay scale, which runs from Band 1 to Band 9. Newly qualified nurses start at Band 5, which pays £29,970 rising to £36,483. With experience, nurses can progress to Band 6 (senior/specialist) or Band 7 (advanced practitioner).
Pay in Scotland and Wales may differ slightly from England. Scotland operates a separate pay scale (the Scottish Nursing Association pay scale) and in recent years Scottish nurses have received higher increases than their English counterparts.
Private sector nurses can earn significantly more than NHS rates — senior nurses in private hospitals or care homes can earn £40,000-£60,000. Agency nursing also typically pays above Band rates but without the NHS pension and other benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much do NHS nurses earn?
Newly qualified Band 5 NHS nurses in England earn £29,970–£36,483 per year. Senior nurses at Band 6 earn £37,338–£44,962. Advanced practitioners at Band 7 earn £46,148–£52,809. The median salary across all nursing grades is approximately £38,000.
What is Band 5 nurse salary?
Band 5 is the starting grade for qualified nurses in the NHS. The pay range is £29,970 to £36,483 per year (2026 rates for England). Nurses start at the bottom of the band and progress through it with experience. This equates to approximately £15.37–£18.71 per hour.
How long does it take to become a senior nurse?
Most nurses progress from Band 5 to Band 6 after 3-5 years of experience. Band 6 requires additional qualifications or specialist skills. Progression to Band 7 (advanced practitioner) typically takes 8-10+ years and often requires a Master's degree or equivalent.