What Is the National Minimum Wage 2025? A Practical Guide to the New Rates

What Is the National Minimum Wage 2025?

If you’re asking what is the national minimum wage 2025, you’re not alone. Every April the government updates the statutory minimum rates, and the 2025 changes bring significant increases – especially for younger workers. This guide explains the new rates, how they affect your pay, and what to look for when comparing advertised salaries.

The 2025 Statutory Rates at a Glance

From 1 April 2025, the following hourly minimums apply across the UK:

• National Living Wage (21 and over): £12.21
• National Minimum Wage (18–20): £10.00
• National Minimum Wage (under 18): £7.55
• Apprentice rate: £7.55

These rates are set by the Low Pay Commission and accepted by the government. The biggest jump is for 18–20 year olds, whose rate rose by 16.3% – a deliberate move to narrow the gap with the National Living Wage. The apprentice and under-18 rates both increased by 18%.

Important: The apprentice rate applies only if you are under 19, or aged 19 or over and in the first year of your apprenticeship. Once you finish your first year and are 19 or older, you must be paid the age-appropriate minimum wage (e.g., £12.21 if you are 21+).

How These Rates Compare to Average Earnings

Statutory minimums are the legal floor, but most workers earn more. According to the Office for National Statistics (ONS), median weekly earnings for full-time employees in April 2025 were £766.60, up 5.3% from the previous year. That works out to roughly £19.67 per hour – well above the National Living Wage.

However, averages can be misleading. Low-paid sectors like retail, hospitality, and care often pay closer to the minimum. The ONS notes that caring, leisure and other service occupations saw a 7.3% rise in median hourly pay, reflecting the National Living Wage increase. If you’re job hunting, always check the advertised salary against the statutory rate for your age.

For more context on typical pay levels, visit our pay data page, which breaks down earnings by region and occupation.

From Headline Rate to Take-Home Pay

Knowing what is the national minimum wage 2025 is only the first step. Your actual take-home pay depends on several factors:

• Tax and National Insurance: Deducted automatically if you earn above the thresholds.
• Pension contributions: If you’re enrolled in a workplace pension, a percentage comes off your pay.
• Deductions: Employers can deduct for accommodation (up to £10.66 per day in 2025), uniform, or other items if agreed in your contract.
• Hours and overtime: Your weekly or monthly pay is calculated by multiplying your hourly rate by the hours you work. Overtime may be paid at a higher rate, but not always.

Always read your employment contract carefully. If you suspect you’re being paid less than the statutory minimum, you can use the government’s minimum wage calculator or contact Acas for advice.

What About 2026?

The government has announced that from April 2026, the National Living Wage will extend to workers aged 18 and over, and the rate will rise to £12.71 for those 21 and over. The 18–20 rate will increase to £10.85, and the under-18 and apprentice rates to £8.00. These changes are part of a long-term plan to simplify the age bands and boost low pay.

For now, focus on the 2025 rates. If you’re under 21, check whether your employer is applying the correct band – mistakes do happen.

Practical Tips for Job Seekers

• Always ask about the hourly rate – not just the annual salary. A £20,000 salary might sound good, but if it’s based on 45 hours a week, the hourly rate could be below the minimum.
• Compare with the statutory rate for your age. Use the table above as a quick reference.
• Look beyond the minimum. Many employers advertise salaries above the legal floor, especially in sectors facing labour shortages. Our pay guides cover typical pay in popular industries.
• Understand your rights. You are entitled to the minimum wage from your first day of work, regardless of whether you are on a zero-hours contract or a fixed-term arrangement.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the National Living Wage for 2025? The National Living Wage for workers aged 21 and over is £12.21 per hour from 1 April 2025. This is a 6.7% increase from the previous rate of £11.44.

Do I get the minimum wage if I’m an apprentice? Apprentices under 19, or aged 19 or over in their first year, are entitled to the apprentice rate of £7.55 per hour. Once you are 19 or over and have completed your first year, you must be paid the minimum wage for your age group.

How do advertised salaries compare to the minimum wage? Advertised salaries vary widely. According to the ONS, median full-time weekly earnings in April 2025 were £766.60, equivalent to roughly £19.67 per hour. Many jobs pay above the minimum, especially in skilled roles, but entry-level and part-time positions may offer rates closer to the statutory minimum.

Stay Informed

Minimum wage rates change every April, and the government often adjusts the age thresholds. Bookmark our topics page for updates on pay legislation, or use our about page to learn more about how we research and present salary information.

Remember: knowing what is the national minimum wage 2025 is your first defence against being underpaid. Check your payslip, know your rights, and don’t hesitate to speak up if something doesn’t add up.