What is the average GP salary in the UK? A guide for 2026/27

Understanding the average GP salary in the UK

When searching for the average GP salary in the UK, it is important to recognise that GP pay is not a single figure. It varies significantly depending on whether you work as a salaried GP (an employee of a practice) or as a contractor GP (a partner who runs the practice). The headline figures you see often refer to the contractual pay range for salaried GPs, which is set annually by the Doctors’ and Dentists’ Remuneration Body (DDRB) and accepted by the government. For a broader view of UK pay rates, see our UK Minimum Wage page.

Salaried GP pay ranges for 2026/27

The DDRB recommended a 3.5% uplift for salaried GPs from 1 April 2026. According to, the pay ranges by nation are:

• England: £78,699 to £118,759
• Wales: £81,893 to £123,573

For the previous year (2025/26), Scotland’s range was £77,160–£115,167 and Northern Ireland’s was £74,172–£111,928. These ranges represent the contractual minimum and maximum for salaried GPs employed under the model contract. The Pay and Conditions Circular confirms the 3.5% increase.

Average earnings versus pay ranges

While the pay range gives the legal boundaries, actual average earnings are often lower because many GPs work part-time or are in the early years of their career. The NHS Digital GP Earnings and Expenses Estimates for 2024/25 (published at) show the average income before tax for salaried GPs:

• England: £74,800
• Scotland: £76,100
• Wales: £84,000
• Northern Ireland: £76,600

These averages are below the minimum of the pay range because they include part-time GPs and those on lower increments. In contrast, contractor GPs (partners) earned much higher averages: £164,200 in England, but this is before deducting practice expenses.

What this means for job seekers

If you are looking at GP roles, it is essential to check whether the position is salaried or a partnership. Salaried roles offer a predictable income within the DDRB range, and the BMA Model Contract includes annual increments. However, not all employers are bound by the model contract – especially non-practice organisations. Always review your contract for an uplift clause. For more detailed breakdowns of pay scales, visit our pay data page.

Key takeaways

• The average GP salary in the UK depends on contract type and nation.
• Salaried GP pay ranges for 2026/27 start at £78,699 in England and go up to £123,573 in Wales.
• Average earnings for salaried GPs are lower than the range maximum due to part-time working and career stage.
• Contractor GPs earn more on average but bear business costs.
• Always confirm whether the advertised salary is based on the DDRB range and whether your contract includes an annual uplift.

FAQ

What is the average GP salary in the UK?

There is no single figure because GP pay depends on whether you are a salaried employee or a contractor (partner). For salaried GPs in England, the contractual pay range for 2026/27 is £78,699 to £118,759, but the average income before tax in 2024/25 was around £74,800. Contractor GPs earned an average of £164,200 in England, but this is before expenses. Figures also vary by UK nation.

How does the GP pay range differ by nation?

For 2026/27, the DDRB recommended ranges are: England £78,699–£118,759; Wales £81,893–£123,573. For 2025/26, Scotland’s range was £77,160–£115,167 and Northern Ireland’s was £74,172–£111,928. The Welsh range is notably higher at both ends. Always check the most current figures for your nation.

Are salaried GPs paid the same as contractor GPs?

No. Salaried GPs are employees with a fixed pay range and typically receive a salary plus benefits. Contractor GPs are self-employed partners who own or run a practice; their income is higher on average but they must cover business expenses, premises, and staff costs. The average income for contractor GPs in England was £164,200 in 2024/25, compared to £74,800 for salaried GPs.