💬 Introduction
Construction Job Salary Guide UK 2025 — here’s the latest view of average construction salaries, day rates and regional trends for the most in-demand roles across the UK.
The UK construction sector continues to face record demand in 2025 — from housing and infrastructure to green retrofits and HS2 extensions. Skilled trades and professionals are in short supply, which means salaries are rising across most roles.
Whether you’re a tradesperson, engineer, or employer benchmarking pay, this salary guide breaks down average earnings across key UK construction roles, regional differences, and the top factors affecting pay in 2025.
📊 Average Construction Salaries (2025 Overview)
| Role | Average Annual Salary | Daily / Hourly Rate | Experience Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| General Labourer | £25,000 – £30,000 | £100 – £130 / day | Entry |
| Groundworker | £32,000 – £38,000 | £140 – £170 / day | Intermediate |
| Bricklayer | £38,000 – £45,000 | £180 – £220 / day | Experienced |
| Carpenter / Joiner | £36,000 – £44,000 | £170 – £210 / day | Skilled |
| Plumber | £37,000 – £46,000 | £180 – £230 / day | Skilled |
| Electrician | £40,000 – £50,000 | £190 – £250 / day | Qualified |
| Site Supervisor | £42,000 – £55,000 | £200 – £280 / day | Experienced |
| Site Manager | £50,000 – £65,000 | £250 – £350 / day | Senior |
| Quantity Surveyor | £45,000 – £60,000 | Salary | Professional |
| Civil Engineer | £40,000 – £65,000 | Salary | Professional |
| Project Manager | £55,000 – £75,000 | Salary | Senior |
| Health & Safety Officer | £38,000 – £55,000 | Salary | Professional |
| Construction Director | £85,000 – £120,000 | Salary | Executive |
(Source: CITB, ONS, and UK4Jobs employer data 2025)
📍 Regional Pay Variations
Construction pay rates vary significantly across the UK:
- London & South East: Highest salaries, typically 15–25% above national average due to cost of living and demand.
- Midlands & North West: Competitive rates with strong demand in infrastructure and housing.
- Scotland & Wales: Slightly lower averages but steady growth in civil and renewable projects.
📈 Salary Trends in 2025
- Skills shortage premiums — Employers are offering sign-on bonuses and retention pay for electricians, project managers, and surveyors.
2. Green construction jobs — Retrofit specialists, solar installers, and sustainability engineers are among the fastest-growing and best-paid new roles.
3. Freelance & subcontractor flexibility — Many skilled workers now earn more as self-employed subcontractors, particularly in London.
4. Certifications boost earnings — Holding NVQs, CSCS Gold Cards, SSSTS/SMSTS, or chartered memberships (CIOB, RICS, ICE) adds significant pay advantages.
👷 How to Increase Your Pay in Construction
Get qualified: NVQ Level 3 or above, and professional accreditations.
Specialise: Focus on high-demand areas (e.g., civils, renewable energy, groundwork).
Network & visibility: Maintain an up-to-date profile on UK4Jobs and respond quickly to new job leads.
Work direct with employers: Avoid agency deductions by joining verified employer job boards.
🔎 Find Your Next Construction Job
UK4Jobs connects employers, tradespeople, and candidates across the UK construction industry.
Create your free account today and discover the latest job opportunities in your region.
📘 Summary
The UK construction market in 2025 offers some of the most competitive salaries seen in a decade — driven by housing shortages, infrastructure investment, and a nationwide skills gap. Whether you’re looking to hire or get hired, understanding current pay rates helps you negotiate better and plan ahead.
Ready to move up in your construction career?
👉 Visit UK4Jobs.co.uk — the UK’s dedicated platform for Construction Professionals.
According to the Office for National Statistics, average pay in construction has continued to rise due to skills shortages.
Recent research by CITB’s Construction Skills Network highlights increased demand across multiple trades.