The landscape of skilled trades in the UK has seen significant shifts in 2024, driven by economic changes, technological advancements, and regional demand. Understanding where the best opportunities lie—both in terms of pay and job security—can help guide career decisions for those in the trades.
Highest Earning Tradespeople in the UK (2024)
- Electricians
- Average Hourly Rate: £21.80
- Overview: Electricians remain at the top of the earnings chart, driven by consistent demand for both residential and commercial projects, including renewable energy installations.
- Plumbers
- Average Hourly Rate: £20.90
- Overview: Plumbing remains a lucrative trade, especially with the ongoing need for maintenance, new installations, and emergency repairs in both residential and industrial settings.
- Gas Engineers
- Average Hourly Rate: £22.10
- Overview: Gas engineers, particularly those specializing in boiler repairs and central heating systems, continue to command high wages due to the critical nature of their work.
- Joiners/Carpenters
- Average Hourly Rate: £20.20
- Overview: Skilled carpenters and joiners are in high demand for custom projects, including home renovations and high-end furniture construction.
- HVAC Technicians
- Average Hourly Rate: £21.50
- Overview: With the rising focus on energy efficiency, HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) technicians are earning more as they install and maintain increasingly complex systems.
Lowest Earning Tradespeople in the UK (2024)
- Painters and Decorators
- Average Hourly Rate: £16.00
- Overview: While the work is steady, the pay for painters and decorators remains on the lower end compared to other trades.
- Tilers
- Average Hourly Rate: £16.50
- Overview: Tiling is less in demand compared to more technical trades, keeping the wages relatively low.
- Roofers
- Average Hourly Rate: £17.00
- Overview: Roofers, despite the dangerous nature of their work, often find themselves earning less, particularly in regions where housing growth has slowed.
- Gardeners/Landscapers
- Average Hourly Rate: £15.50
- Overview: Landscaping work, though consistent, typically pays less, especially for general maintenance as opposed to specialized projects.
- General Labourers
- Average Hourly Rate: £14.50
- Overview: General labour roles often require less specialization, resulting in lower wages compared to trades with technical expertise.
Top 10 Locations in the UK for Tradespeople by Earnings (2024)
| Location | Average Hourly Rate |
| London | £22.50 |
| Birmingham | £21.00 |
| Manchester | £20.70 |
| Edinburgh | £20.50 |
| Glasgow | £20.30 |
| Bristol | £20.20 |
| Leeds | £20.00 |
| Sheffield | £19.80 |
| Liverpool | £19.50 |
| Newcastle upon Tyne | £19.30 |
Trends Driving Wage Changes in 2024
- Technological Advancements: Trades such as HVAC and electrical work are benefiting from the integration of smart technologies and renewable energy systems, pushing up the demand and wages for skilled technicians in these fields.
- Regional Demand: Urban areas, particularly London and other major cities, continue to see higher wages due to the concentration of projects and the cost of living, which necessitates higher pay.
- Sustainability Initiatives: There’s growing demand for trades associated with green technologies, such as solar panel installation and energy-efficient heating systems, making these roles among the highest earners.
As we move further into 2024, it’s clear that the skilled trades remain a crucial and rewarding sector, albeit with significant variations in pay depending on the trade and location. For those considering entering or advancing in these professions, staying informed about these trends will be key to maximizing earnings and career satisfaction.
References & Further Reading:
- The Future of Wealth in Skilled Trades (Fud Community)
- Skilled Trade Jobs in Demand 2024 (SoFi)
