Social workers Salary Guide UK — 2025
Complete breakdown based on ONS ASHE official data
The median social workers salary in the UK is £42,708 per year, based on the 2025 Annual Survey of Hours and Earnings (ASHE) published by the Office for National Statistics. The mean salary is £41,623, reflecting the influence of higher earners on the average. The median hourly rate is £23.26.
Salaries vary significantly by region, from £37,044 in East Midlands to £46,435 in London. However, these differences narrow when adjusted for regional cost of living.
UK Median
£42,708
Annual
UK Mean
£41,623
Annual
Hourly Rate
£23.26
Median
UK Jobs
105
Regional Salary Breakdown
The "Adjusted" column shows purchasing power after accounting for regional cost of living (UK average = 100).
| Region | Median | Mean | CoL Adjusted |
|---|---|---|---|
| London | £46,435 | £47,067 | £39,893 |
| Scotland | £44,428 | £42,737 | £48,134 |
| North West | £42,829 | £42,638 | £46,962 |
| North East | £42,179 | £40,327 | £46,814 |
| Wales | £42,029 | £40,502 | £46,699 |
| South West | £41,199 | £38,619 | £42,871 |
| South East | £41,026 | £39,733 | £39,754 |
| East | £40,836 | £41,161 | £41,969 |
| West Midlands | £40,415 | £39,120 | £44,169 |
| Yorkshire and The Humber | £38,170 | £36,820 | £42,177 |
| East Midlands | £37,044 | £36,070 | £40,353 |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average social workers salary in the UK?
The median social workers salary in the UK is £42,708 per year (ONS ASHE 2025). The mean salary is £41,623, which is higher due to top earners.
Which region pays social workerss the most?
London pays the highest social workers salaries with a median of £46,435.
How does social workers pay vary by region?
Social workers salaries range from £37,044 in East Midlands to £46,435 in London.
Are social workers salaries rising?
Year-on-year comparison data is not yet available.
What is the hourly rate for a social workers?
The median hourly rate for a social workers in the UK is £23.26 (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.