What's the Minimum Wage UK? 2026 Rates and How They Compare

If you're asking "whats the minimum wage uk", you're likely comparing job offers or checking whether your pay meets legal requirements. The answer depends on your age, whether you're an apprentice, and the tax year. This article covers the latest rates, how to convert hourly pay to annual salary, and how the minimum wage compares with typical UK earnings.

National Living Wage and National Minimum Wage from April 2026

The government sets two main minimums: the National Living Wage (NLW) for workers aged 21 and over, and the National Minimum Wage (NMW) for younger workers and apprentices. From 1 April 2026, the rates are:

• 21 and over (NLW): £12.71 per hour
• 18 to 20: £10.85 per hour
• Under 18: £8.00 per hour
• Apprentice: £8.00 per hour (for apprentices under 19, or those 19+ in their first year)

These increases follow recommendations from the Low Pay Commission, which aims to keep the NLW at two-thirds of median hourly earnings (GOV.UK The National Minimum Wage in 2026). The 2025 rates were £12.21, £10.00, £7.55, and £7.55 respectively.

Converting Hourly Rates to Annual Salary

To understand what these hourly rates mean as a yearly salary, use the standard rule of thumb: annual salary ≈ hourly rate × hours per week × 52 weeks. Most full-time roles assume a 37.5-hour week (common in many sectors), though some use 35, 37, or 40 hours.

For example, at the 2026 NLW of £12.71 per hour and a 37.5-hour week:

£12.71 × 37.5 × 52 = £24,784.50 per year (gross, before tax and National Insurance).

At the 2025 NLW of £12.21, the same calculation gives approximately £23,809.50. The increase of 50p per hour adds nearly £1,000 to the annual figure.

For part-time workers, simply adjust the hours. A 20-hour week at the NLW would yield about £13,218 per year. Use our Hourly to Salary converter for any combination.

How the Minimum Wage Compares with Typical UK Earnings

The minimum wage is a floor, not a target. According to the ONS Annual Survey of Hours and Earnings (ASHE) for April 2025, median gross annual earnings for full-time employees were £39,039 – well above the NLW. Median hourly earnings (excluding overtime) were £19.67, and median weekly earnings were £766.60.

This means that while the NLW ensures a basic standard, many jobs pay significantly more. Low-paid occupations such as caring, leisure, and other service roles saw the largest percentage increases in 2025 (7.1% weekly), partly driven by the NLW rise (ONS ASHE 2025).

Key Considerations When Comparing Hourly and Salaried Jobs

When deciding between an hourly job and a salaried offer, remember:

• Overtime: Hourly roles often pay overtime (e.g., time-and-a-half), which can boost annual income. Salaried roles may include overtime in the base pay or offer no extra pay.
• London weighting: Many employers in London and the South East add a cost-of-living supplement. This can be several thousand pounds per year.
• Holiday pay: Hourly workers typically receive statutory holiday pay (5.6 weeks per year), which is included in the hourly rate or paid separately. Salaried workers have paid leave built in.
• Contract type: Zero-hours or variable-hour contracts make annual income uncertain. Always check the guaranteed hours.

For more context on pay scales, see our salary data page, which includes industry benchmarks.

Apprentice and Youth Rates Explained

Apprentices are entitled to the apprentice rate (£8.00 from April 2026) if they are under 19, or 19 or over and in the first year of their apprenticeship. After completing the first year, they must be paid the age-appropriate minimum wage. For example, a 21-year-old apprentice who has finished the first year would receive the NLW of £12.71 per hour.

Workers aged 18 to 20 receive £10.85 per hour, while those under 18 get £8.00. These rates are lower than the NLW but still represent significant increases from previous years.

Practical Steps for Job Seekers

If you're comparing offers, start by converting all hourly rates to an annual figure using the same hours assumption. Then factor in any additional payments like shift allowances, bonuses, or pension contributions. Remember that the minimum wage is a legal minimum – you should aim for a rate that reflects your skills and experience.

For a deeper dive into UK pay trends, read our salary articles on how different occupations compare.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between the National Living Wage and the National Minimum Wage? The National Living Wage (NLW) is the minimum hourly rate for workers aged 21 and over. The National Minimum Wage (NMW) applies to workers aged 20 and under, with separate rates for 18-20 year olds, under-18s, and apprentices. Both are set by the government and updated annually in April.

How do I convert my hourly wage to an annual salary? Multiply your hourly rate by the number of hours you work per week, then multiply by 52 weeks. For example, at the 2026 NLW of £12.71 per hour and a 37.5-hour week, the annual salary would be £12.71 × 37.5 × 52 = £24,784.50. Use our hourly calculator for quick conversions.

What are the minimum wage rates for apprentices? From April 2026, the apprentice rate is £8.00 per hour. This applies to apprentices under 19, or those aged 19 or over in the first year of their apprenticeship. After completing the first year, apprentices are entitled to the age-appropriate minimum wage (e.g., £12.71 if aged 21+).

Disclaimer

Hourly-to-salary figures assume a steady contracted week with no unpaid overtime, bonus, tips, or salary sacrifice. Annual ≈ hourly × hours/week × 52. Actual pay depends on rota, holiday pay method, London weighting, and overtime rules. Always check your contract and official GOV.UK guidance.