Are Construction Jobs Well Paid? A Real-World Look at UK Construction Earnings in 2025

The UK construction industry employs over 3 million people and makes a significant contribution to the UK’s national output. But are construction jobs well paid?

Keep reading to discover some of the highest-paying jobs in construction, why so many people choose this industry, and how you can maximise your career potential.

High Earnings Without a Degree

One of the industry’s biggest draws is the potential to earn a good income without a university degree. Many trades offer competitive salaries, often exceeding those in other sectors requiring higher education.

These roles often start through apprenticeships, allowing individuals to earn while learning. The demand for such skilled trades is high, contributing to the attractive salary prospects.

Management and Specialist Roles

Beyond the trades, the construction industry offers lucrative opportunities in management and specialist positions.

• Site Managers: Earn between £56,900 and £62,000 annually, overseeing construction projects and ensuring they run smoothly.
• Quantity Surveyors: Average salaries range from £51,600 to £59,700, managing costs and contracts for construction projects.
• Commercial Managers: Average earnings of £85,000, with a range between £56,500 and £109,200, responsible for overseeing finances and budgets within construction projects.

These positions often require specific qualifications and experience but offer substantial financial rewards.

Entry-Level and Skilled Trades Roles

The construction sector also provides rewarding opportunities for those starting their careers in hands-on roles.

• Bricklayers: Typically earn between £30,000 and £42,000 annually, constructing and repairing walls, partitions, and other brickwork.
• Electricians: Average salaries range from £32,000 to £45,000, with responsibilities including installing, maintaining, and repairing electrical systems.
• Plumbers: Earn between £28,000 and £40,000, working on water supply, heating, and drainage systems.
• Carpenters and Joiners: Salaries average between £27,000 and £38,000, specialising in woodwork, fittings, and frameworks.
• General Construction Labourers: Entry-level roles often start at £22,000 to £28,000, providing essential site support, with opportunities to move into higher-paid skilled trades through training and experience.

These roles demonstrate the wide range of earning potential available, even at the start of a construction career.

Regional Salary Variations

Salaries in construction can vary significantly across the UK, influenced by factors such as demand, cost of living, and regional economic conditions.

For example, salaries for Quantity Surveyors highlight the difference:

• London: Average salary of around £70,800, roughly 28% above the national average.
• Manchester: Typical salaries average £42,300, with a range from £34,100 to £65,660.
• UK Average: Around £55,299, though this varies widely by experience, from entry-level (£20,000–£25,000) to experienced professionals exceeding £75,000.

These figures show how earning potential can shift significantly depending on location, with London commanding the highest rates.

Check out the variance for other roles using the Indeed Salary Variance Calculator.

The Importance of Skills and Experience

While entry-level positions in construction may offer modest starting salaries, there is significant potential for growth. Gaining experience, upskilling, and obtaining relevant certifications can lead to higher-paying roles.

For instance, a Planning Engineer can earn an average salary of £50,497 per year, with responsibilities including planning, creating, and maintaining project timelines.

Final Thought

Construction jobs in the UK offer a range of well-paid opportunities, from skilled trades to management and specialist roles. With the right training, experience, and sometimes location, individuals can achieve a rewarding and financially stable career in this sector.

Whether you’re starting your career or considering a change, the construction industry presents viable and lucrative options that don’t necessarily require a university degree.

Here at Cavendish Professionals, placing people in places where they truly thrive is at the heart of what we do. Check out our range of available construction roles here