Research and development (R&D) managers Salary Guide UK — 2025
Complete breakdown based on ONS ASHE official data
The median research and development (r&d) managers salary in the UK is £54,857 per year, based on the 2025 Annual Survey of Hours and Earnings (ASHE) published by the Office for National Statistics. The mean salary is £61,929, reflecting the influence of higher earners on the average. The median hourly rate is £29.77.
Salaries vary significantly by region, from £44,036 in Wales to £61,923 in West Midlands. However, these differences narrow when adjusted for regional cost of living.
UK Median
£54,857
Annual
UK Mean
£61,929
Annual
Hourly Rate
£29.77
Median
UK Jobs
81
Regional Salary Breakdown
The "Adjusted" column shows purchasing power after accounting for regional cost of living (UK average = 100).
| Region | Median | Mean | CoL Adjusted |
|---|---|---|---|
| West Midlands | £61,923 | £72,871 | £67,675 |
| North East | £60,883 | £61,126 | £67,573 |
| South West | £59,333 | £61,162 | £61,741 |
| East | £55,128 | £57,444 | £56,658 |
| London | £54,843 | £70,860 | £47,116 |
| East Midlands | £54,739 | £59,689 | £59,629 |
| South East | £53,364 | £57,018 | £51,709 |
| Scotland | £51,456 | £52,620 | £55,749 |
| North West | £51,354 | £54,972 | £56,309 |
| Wales | £44,036 | £46,050 | £48,929 |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average research and development (r&d) managers salary in the UK?
The median research and development (r&d) managers salary in the UK is £54,857 per year (ONS ASHE 2025). The mean salary is £61,929, which is higher due to top earners.
Which region pays research and development (r&d) managers the most?
West Midlands pays the highest research and development (r&d) managers salaries with a median of £61,923.
How does research and development (r&d) managers pay vary by region?
Research and development (R&D) managers salaries range from £44,036 in Wales to £61,923 in West Midlands.
Are research and development (r&d) managers salaries rising?
Year-on-year comparison data is not yet available.
What is the typical hourly rate for research and development (r&d) managers?
The median hourly rate for research and development (r&d) managers in the UK is £29.77 (ONS ASHE 2025).
About this data
All salary figures in this guide are from the ONS Annual Survey of Hours and Earnings (ASHE) 2025. Cost-of-living adjustments use ONS Regional Price Parities. Read our methodology. View data sources.