Rent has gone up. Energy bills feel heavier every winter. Council tax, broadband, transport, food — it all adds up quickly.
If you live in the UK, or you’re planning to move here, you’ve probably asked yourself the same question many others are asking right now:
“Can an entry level job actually pay well enough to live in the UK?”
Many people assume that the highest paying jobs in the UK are only available after years of experience. In reality, that’s no longer entirely true. Certain sectors now offer surprisingly strong starting salaries — even for people at the very beginning of their careers.
Based on real market trends and hiring patterns, this guide explains the highest paying jobs UK entry level, who they are suitable for, and what kind of lifestyle they realistically support.
The highest paying entry level jobs in the UK include software development, data analysis, cyber security, tech sales, skilled trades such as electricians, and selected NHS Band 3–5 roles. Starting salaries range from £28,000 to £45,000 depending on location, skills and industry demand.
Why these jobs pay well:
- High demand and skill shortages
- Short training or certification routes
- Strong salary growth potential
- Lower competition for junior roles in tech and trades
Who benefits most:
- New arrivals planning to work in the UK
- Students
- New graduates
- Career changers
What does “highest paying entry level job” mean in the UK?
In the UK context, an entry level role usually means:
- Little to no professional experience required
- Training provided on the job or through short courses
- Graduate, apprenticeship, or junior-level positions
A high-paying entry level job is one that pays above the UK median starting salary, often between £28,000 and £40,000, depending on location and sector.
Quick summary:
Entry level doesn’t mean low income anymore — but only in the right industries.
Which entry level jobs pay the most in the UK right now?
Below are roles consistently appearing in salary data, recruitment trends, and employer demand forecasts.
Software Developer (Junior Level): Why does it pay so well?
Typical starting salary: £30,000–£40,000
Higher in: London, fintech hubs, remote-first companies
Technology remains one of the strongest areas for the highest paying job UK entry level roles. Many junior developers enter the market via bootcamps or self-taught routes rather than traditional degrees.
Employers often prioritise skills over formal qualifications, especially for junior roles.
Who is this role suitable for?
- Logical thinkers
- People comfortable learning independently
- Those open to remote or hybrid work
Key takeaway:
One of the most reliable paths to high entry level pay in the UK.
Data Analyst: Is it really entry level friendly?
Starting salary: £28,000–£38,000
Common requirements: Excel, SQL, basic Python or Power BI
Data roles are expanding across retail, healthcare, finance, and the public sector. Many employers now hire junior analysts with limited experience if they demonstrate strong analytical thinking.
Why it pays well:
Businesses rely heavily on data-driven decisions, and demand still exceeds supply.
Summary:
A strong option for numerically minded people seeking stable, well-paid entry level work.
Cyber Security Technician: Why is demand so high?
Entry level salary: £32,000–£45,000
Often requires: Short certifications rather than degrees
Cyber security is no longer optional for UK businesses. As digital risks increase, even junior security roles command higher salaries than many traditional professions.
This role frequently appears on lists of the highest paying jobs in the UK, even at entry level.
Who should consider it?
- Detail-oriented individuals
- People interested in IT and risk prevention
Summary:
High responsibility, high demand, and strong starting pay.
Sales Development Representative (SDR): Can entry level sales really pay well?
Base salary: £26,000–£35,000
With commission: £40,000–£55,000 possible
Sales roles — especially in tech and SaaS — offer some of the highest earning potential for beginners. While base pay may seem average, commission structures can significantly increase take-home pay.
Important note:
Income depends heavily on performance and company culture.
Summary:
Not for everyone, but financially powerful for confident communicators.
Electrician Apprentice: A high-paying alternative to university
Apprenticeship salary: £23,000–£30,000
Qualified salary: £38,000–£55,000+
Trades are often overlooked when discussing the highest paying job UK options. In reality, skilled electricians earn more than many graduates — without student debt.
Demand is particularly strong in London and the South East.
Who is it suitable for?
- Practical, hands-on learners
- Those preferring stable, long-term demand
Summary:
One of the smartest non-academic routes to high earnings.
NHS Entry Level Roles: Are they financially viable?
Starting salary: £23,000–£30,000 (Band 3–5)
Roles such as nursing associates, radiography assistants, and specialist support positions offer structured pay progression and job security.
While not always the highest paying initially, NHS roles often outperform expectations over time.
Summary:
Stable income, pension benefits, and predictable growth.
Can you actually live comfortably on these salaries in the UK?
This depends heavily on location and lifestyle.
- London: higher rent, council tax, transport, and winter energy usage
- Northern England & Midlands: lower housing costs
- Scotland: often better rent-to-income balance
Many people earning £28,000–£35,000 manage well by:
- Living in flat shares
- Choosing energy-efficient properties
- Controlling transport and broadband costs
It’s important to note that living costs vary by city, household size, and personal energy usage.
Summary:
Yes — but city choice matters as much as salary.
How should you choose the right high-paying entry level job?
Experienced career advisers often recommend asking:
- Does this role have long-term growth?
- Is the industry stable?
- Can I realistically see myself doing this daily?
- Does it match my strengths?
Chasing salary alone often leads to burnout. The best outcomes come from balancing income with sustainability.
The highest paying jobs UK entry level include software development, data analysis, cyber security, tech sales, skilled trades like electricians, and selected NHS roles. These positions typically offer starting salaries between £28,000 and £45,000, depending on location and sector. Many do not require long-term experience and focus on skills or short-term training instead.
FAQ
Which entry level job pays the most in the UK?
Tech roles such as junior software developers and cyber security technicians generally offer the highest starting salaries.
Can you live in the UK on an entry level salary?
Yes, especially outside London. Costs vary by city, energy usage and housing type.
Do you need a degree for high paying entry level jobs?
Not always. Trades, cyber security and tech sales often accept candidates without a degree.
What is a good entry level salary in the UK?
Anything between £28k and £35k is considered strong for beginners.
Final Thought
If you’re already living in the UK — or planning to move — the idea that “good money only comes with experience” is outdated. Entry level roles can pay well, if you choose strategically.
If this guide helped you, feel free to share it, bookmark it, or reflect on which path fits your situation best.
Your career doesn’t have to start small to grow big.