UK Minimum Wage Rates
National Living Wage and National Minimum Wage rates by age band.
The adult National Living Wage qualifying age has changed over time:
- Before April 2021: 25 and over
- April 2021 to March 2024: 23 and over
- April 2024 onwards: 21 and over
The "adult" rate shown here refers to the highest statutory minimum wage at each point in time, regardless of the qualifying age.
Minimum Wage by Age Band
UK minimum wage rates for adults, 18-20, 16-17, and apprentices.
The UK sets different minimum wage rates for different age groups. The rationale is that lower rates for younger workers may encourage employers to hire and train them, though this remains debated.
The apprentice rate applies to apprentices under 19 years old, or those aged 19 and over who are in the first year of their apprenticeship. After completing the first year, apprentices aged 19+ are entitled to the minimum wage for their age.
Rate History by Age Band
Hourly rate for workers at or above the qualifying age.
Hourly rate for workers aged 18 to 20.
Hourly rate for workers aged 16 to 17 (above school leaving age).
Hourly rate for apprentices under 19 or in first year of apprenticeship.
Minimum Wage in Context
Minimum wage (£/hour) and average earnings (£/week) use different units. These charts rebase both to a common index starting at 100, showing whether minimum wage increases have kept pace with average wage growth.
Compare minimum wage growth with average weekly earnings (rebased).
Compare minimum wage with private rents (rebased).
Source: GOV.UK National Minimum Wage and National Living Wage rates. Rates change on 1 April each year. The adult rate shown reflects the National Living Wage (the highest statutory minimum wage) at each point in time.