Minimum Wage for Under 18: 2026 Rates and How They Compare to Average UK Salaries

Understanding the Minimum Wage for Under 18 in 2026

If you are under 18 and looking for part-time or full-time work in the UK, the minimum wage for under 18 is a crucial benchmark. From April 2026, the National Minimum Wage (NMW) for 16-17 year olds rises to £8.00 per hour, up from £7.55 in 2025. This 6% increase follows recommendations from the Low Pay Commission, which also raised the 18-20 rate to £10.85 and the National Living Wage (21+) to £12.71. [GOV.UK National Minimum Wage rates] confirm these figures.

For many young workers, this rate is the legal floor. However, it is important to understand how it fits into the wider UK salary landscape. The median hourly earnings for full-time employees (excluding overtime) stood at £19.67 in April 2025, according to the [ONS ASHE data]. That means the under 18 minimum is less than half the typical full-time hourly pay. Even the National Living Wage for those aged 21+ (£12.71) is well below the median, reflecting the fact that minimum wage roles are often entry-level or part-time.

How the Under 18 Rate Compares to Average UK Earnings

The ONS prefers the median as the measure of average earnings because it is less distorted by very high earners. In 2025, median gross annual earnings for full-time employees were £39,039, with median weekly earnings of £766.60. By contrast, a young person working 35 hours a week at the under 18 minimum wage would earn roughly £14,560 per year – less than 40% of the median. Even at the 18-20 rate (£10.85), a full-time worker would earn around £19,747, still far below the national median.

It is also worth noting that many under 18s work part-time while in education. For example, a 16-year-old working 12 hours a week at £8.00 would earn about £96 per week, or roughly £4,992 annually. This is below the personal tax allowance (£12,570 in 2026/27), so no income tax would be deducted, though National Insurance may apply if earnings exceed the threshold.

Take-Home Pay and Tax Considerations

While the gross minimum wage for under 18 is straightforward, take-home pay depends on tax, National Insurance, and any benefits. For workers under 18, earnings are often low enough to avoid income tax entirely. However, if you work more than about 15 hours a week at the minimum wage, you may start paying National Insurance contributions. The Low Pay Commission notes that the interaction with Universal Credit can boost take-home income for eligible households, but single young workers living with parents may not qualify.

It is also important to remember that Scotland sets its own income tax bands. While this does not affect the gross minimum wage, it can change net pay for Scottish residents. For example, the starter rate in Scotland is 19% on income above the personal allowance, compared to 20% in England and Wales. This means a young worker in Scotland might keep slightly more of their earnings, but the difference is small at minimum wage levels.

Using the Minimum Wage as a Benchmark for Job Offers

When you receive a job offer, the minimum wage for under 18 is the absolute baseline. Employers cannot legally pay less, but many will offer more, especially in sectors like hospitality, retail, or care where labour is in demand. Always compare the offered hourly rate to the statutory minimum and to the median for your age group. For a 16-17 year old, anything above £8.00 is a premium. For 18-20 year olds, the floor is £10.85, but the median hourly pay for all employees is much higher.

Our UK Average Salary page provides context on typical earnings across different roles and regions. You can also explore salary data for more detailed breakdowns by age, sector, and location. Remember that advertised salaries often use mean or median figures, so check whether the job is full-time or part-time and whether overtime is included.

The Broader Salary Landscape

The Low Pay Commission’s remit states that two-thirds of median hourly earnings should remain the key reference point for future National Living Wage rates. They project that two-thirds of median earnings for those aged 21+ will be around £13.18 by October 2027. This suggests that the NLW will continue to rise faster than the under 18 rate, widening the gap unless the government moves to lower the NLW age threshold. Currently, the NLW applies to those aged 21 and over, but the government has committed to eventually aligning it with age 18.

For young job seekers, understanding these benchmarks helps in negotiations. If an employer offers the minimum wage for under 18, you can point to the median earnings for your age group or the 18-20 rate as a reference. While you may not have experience, many employers value enthusiasm and willingness to learn. Don’t be afraid to ask for a higher rate if you have relevant skills or if the role demands unsocial hours.

Conclusion

The minimum wage for under 18 in 2026 is £8.00 per hour, a modest increase from 2025. It remains far below the UK median full-time hourly earnings of £19.67, but it provides a legal safety net. When comparing job offers, always consider the hourly rate, hours, and any additional benefits. Use our salary index to see how different pay levels stack up against national averages. Remember that your first job is a stepping stone – focus on gaining experience and skills, but don’t settle for less than you are worth.

For more guidance on salary negotiation and understanding UK pay, browse our topics section.