The median gross salary in Sheffield is approximately £30,800 per year — 12% below the UK national median of £34,963. Here is what that means for take-home pay, cost of living, and how Sheffield compares with other UK cities.
Average Salary in Sheffield — Key Figures (2026)
| Measure | Sheffield | UK National |
|---|---|---|
| Median full-time salary | £30,800 | £34,963 |
| Take-home at median (annual) | £25,696 | £28,693 |
| Take-home at median (monthly) | £2,141 | £2,391 |
| Typical one-bed rent | £650–£950/month | — |
| Disposable income after rent (est.) | £1,491–£1,191/month | — |
Disposable income is illustrative and based on median take-home minus estimated rent only. Other living costs not included.
Sheffield Context
Sheffield’s economy has transformed significantly from its steel and manufacturing heritage. While engineering and advanced manufacturing remain important (Boeing, McLaren Automotive components), the city now has strong healthcare, education, and growing digital sectors. Median wages are below the national average, but Sheffield is one of the most affordable major UK cities for housing.
Highest Paying Sectors in Sheffield
- Advanced manufacturing and engineering
- Healthcare and NHS
- Education and higher education
- Digital and technology
- Finance and professional services
Major Employers in Sheffield
- Sheffield Teaching Hospitals NHS
- Sheffield City Council
- University of Sheffield / Sheffield Hallam University
- Boeing Sheffield
- HSBC / Lloyds regional
Take-Home Pay at Sheffield’s Median Salary (£30,800)
| Component | Annual | Monthly |
|---|---|---|
| Gross salary | £30,800 | £2,567 |
| Income tax | −£3,646 | −£304 |
| National Insurance | −£1,458 | −£122 |
| Take home pay | £25,696 | £2,141 |
Sheffield vs UK National Salary Comparison
| Measure | Sheffield | UK Median |
|---|---|---|
| Median gross salary | £30,800 | £34,963 |
| Difference vs national median | £4163 below | — |
| Take-home at median | £25,696 | £28,693 |
Sheffield Cost of Living vs Salary
Salary comparison alone does not capture real purchasing power. Housing costs are the dominant variable.
| Cost | Sheffield | London |
|---|---|---|
| One-bed flat (monthly rent) | £650–£950 | £1,800–£2,800 |
| Food and groceries (monthly) | £200–£300 | £250–£400 |
| Transport (monthly pass) | £80–£130 | £170 (Zones 1–2) |
For someone earning £30,800 in Sheffield, the rent-to-income ratio on a one-bedroom flat is approximately 30–44% of take-home pay — a significant share of take-home income.
Salary Growth Opportunities in Sheffield
Sheffield offers career progression particularly in:
- Advanced manufacturing and engineering: growing sector with demand for senior professional and management roles
- Healthcare and NHS: growing sector with demand for senior professional and management roles
- Education and higher education: growing sector with demand for senior professional and management roles