What do people actually earn in Manchester? A full breakdown of median salaries by sector, experience level, and how the city compares to the UK median.
Manchester has transformed its economy over the past two decades. Once defined by manufacturing, it's now one of the UK's leading cities for financial services, technology, media, and professional services. That shift has had a significant impact on what workers earn here.
Manchester's median salary sits around £33,000 — approximately 7% below the UK median. However, this overall figure masks significant variation. Professional services, tech, and finance roles in Manchester often reach parity with or exceed national averages.
| Sector | Average salary (Manchester) |
|---|---|
| Technology / Software | £38,000–£70,000 |
| Financial services | £35,000–£65,000 |
| Legal | £30,000–£80,000+ |
| Marketing / Digital | £28,000–£45,000 |
| Healthcare (NHS) | £28,000–£50,000 |
| Education | £28,000–£45,000 |
| Retail / Hospitality | £22,000–£28,000 |
| Construction | £28,000–£45,000 |
| Public sector | £24,000–£42,000 |
The London premium for equivalent roles is typically 15–25% in Manchester. A software developer earning £55,000 in London might earn £42,000–£48,000 in Manchester. A financial analyst earning £45,000 in London might earn £36,000–£40,000 in Manchester.
However — and this is crucial — Manchester's lower cost of living often means the Manchester earner has more disposable income. See our London vs Manchester comparison for the full breakdown.
Manchester's most dynamic salary growth has been in tech, with the MediaCityUK development and growing startup ecosystem driving demand. The city is also seeing significant investment in life sciences around the Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust corridor. Both sectors have pushed entry-level salaries above what you'd find in many other regional cities.
See where your pay stands against Manchester and UK median data.
Check Your Salary →The median salary in Manchester is approximately £33,000, around 7% below the UK median of £35,404. However, roles in tech and finance often pay significantly above this.
Manchester offers competitive salaries in most professional sectors, often with better disposable income than London once living costs are accounted for.
Technology, legal, and financial services are the highest-paying sectors in Manchester. Senior roles in these fields regularly reach £60,000–£100,000+.