IT Salary Overview
The UK tech sector continues to grow rapidly, with salaries reflecting the high demand for skilled IT professionals. Here's a comprehensive breakdown of average IT salaries across different roles and experience levels.
| Role | Entry Level | Mid Level | Senior Level | Lead/Principal |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Software Developer | £30,000 - £45,000 | £45,000 - £65,000 | £65,000 - £90,000 | £90,000+ |
| Data Scientist | £35,000 - £50,000 | £50,000 - £75,000 | £75,000 - £100,000 | £100,000+ |
| DevOps Engineer | £40,000 - £55,000 | £55,000 - £80,000 | £80,000 - £110,000 | £110,000+ |
Regional Salary Variations
London
Highest salaries due to high demand and cost of living
£45,000 - £120,000Manchester
Growing tech hub with competitive salaries
£35,000 - £90,000Edinburgh
Strong fintech sector with good salary prospects
£32,000 - £85,000Experience Level Breakdown
Entry Level (0-2 years)
- Basic programming skills
- Understanding of development processes
- Team collaboration
Mid Level (3-5 years)
- Advanced technical skills
- Project management experience
- Mentoring junior developers
Senior Level (5+ years)
- Architecture design
- Technical leadership
- Strategic decision making
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Frequently Asked Questions
What factors influence IT salaries in the UK?
Key factors include experience level, technical skills, location, company size, and industry sector. Specialized skills in high demand can significantly increase earning potential.
How do IT salaries compare across UK regions?
London typically offers the highest salaries, followed by other major tech hubs like Manchester and Edinburgh. However, cost of living should be considered when comparing regional salaries.
What are the most in-demand IT skills?
Currently, cloud computing, AI/ML, cybersecurity, and DevOps skills are highly sought after. Full-stack development and data science expertise also command premium salaries.
What are typical contract rates for IT professionals?
Contract rates vary by role and experience but typically range from £400-£800 per day for mid-level to senior positions, with specialized roles potentially earning more.