Swansea salary data for 2026 — median earnings by sector and how Wales's second city compares to Cardiff and the UK median.
Swansea is Wales's second city and home to a growing digital, health, and university-driven economy. Salaries are below both Cardiff and the UK median, but the city's very low cost of living makes it one of the most affordable places in Wales to live and work.
| Sector | Average salary (Swansea) |
|---|---|
| Technology / Digital (Swansea Tech Hub) | £28,000–£55,000 |
| Healthcare (NHS Swansea Bay) | £28,000–£55,000 |
| Education / Swansea University | £26,000–£48,000 |
| Financial Services | £25,000–£48,000 |
| Public Sector / Welsh Government | £22,000–£42,000 |
| Manufacturing | £24,000–£42,000 |
| Retail / Tourism / Hospitality | £19,000–£26,000 |
Swansea has been positioning itself as a tech hub, with the Swansea City Deal investing in digital infrastructure and innovation. The Digital Village development has attracted technology businesses and created professional roles that pay above the local average. Swansea University's research output in engineering and computer science also supports a small but growing knowledge economy.
Compare your pay against Swansea and UK median benchmarks.
Check Your Salary →The median salary in Swansea is approximately £29,500 — around 24% below the UK median. However the city's low cost of living means disposable income compares well.
Yes — Swansea is typically 10–15% cheaper than Cardiff on rent and everyday costs, while salaries are slightly lower too.
Technology, NHS clinical roles, and senior university positions are the highest-paying sectors in Swansea.