Social Worker Salary in the UK
Social workers support vulnerable individuals and families, including children at risk, elderly people, and those with disabilities or mental health challenges.
Social Worker Take Home Pay
On the average Social Worker salary of £38,000, you would take home £30,880 per year (£2,573.30 per month) after tax and National Insurance.
Effective tax rate: 18.7%|Marginal rate: 20%
Social Worker Salary by Location
Social Worker salaries vary significantly by region. London typically offers the highest salaries but also has a higher cost of living.
Social Worker Salary Growth (2020-2025)
See how Social Worker salaries have changed over the past 5 years, including inflation-adjusted real growth.
+18.2%
Total Growth
+£5,841
Salary Increase
+3.4%
Annual Growth Rate
-7.6%
Real Growth (Inflation Adj.)
Year-over-Year Changes
Key Skills Required
Typical Qualifications
- Social Work degree
- Social Work England registration
- Enhanced DBS check
Social Worker Career Progression
What Does a Social Worker Do?
Industries Hiring Social Workers
Calculate Your Take Home Pay
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Your Income
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Salary sacrifice reduces taxable income
Take Home Pay
£30,879.60/year
81.3% of gross income
- Gross Income£38,000.00
- Taxable Income£25,430.00
- Income Tax-£5,086.00
- National Insurance-£2,034.40
- Total Deductions-£7,120.40
18.7%
Effective Rate
20%
Marginal Rate
£38,000 Salary Insights
Compare your salary and understand your tax breakdown
£38,000 vs UK Wages
Above UK median
+9%
vs UK Median
£3,000
Above Median
Where Your £38,000 Goes
Annual breakdown of your salary
Tax Benefits on £38,000 from Pension
See how pension contributions reduce your tax bill
Increase your pension contribution to see potential tax savings. Pension contributions reduce your taxable income.
Related Public Sector Salaries
Social Worker Salary FAQ
What is the average Social Worker salary in the UK?
The average Social Worker salary in the UK is £38,000 per year. Salaries typically range from £28,000 for entry-level positions to £50,000 for senior roles.
How much does a Social Worker earn in London?
A Social Worker in London earns an average of £42,000 per year, which is 17% higher than the national average.
What is the take-home pay for a Social Worker?
On the average Social Worker salary of £38,000, you would take home approximately £30,880 per year (£2,573.30 per month) after income tax and National Insurance.