NHS Pay Bands 2026/27: Agenda for Change Salaries and Take-Home Pay
Every NHS pay band in England from 1 April 2026, with the salary at the start and top of each band and what you take home after tax.
| Band | Starting salary | Top salary | Take-home a month (start) | Take-home a month (top) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Band 2 | £25,272 | – | £1,810 | – |
| Band 3 | £25,760 | £27,476 | £1,839 | £1,942 |
| Band 4 | £28,392 | £31,157 | £1,997 | £2,163 |
| Band 5 | £32,073 | £39,043 | £2,218 | £2,636 |
| Band 6 | £39,959 | £48,117 | £2,691 | £3,180 |
| Band 7 | £49,387 | £56,515 | £3,257 | £3,611 |
| Band 8a | £57,528 | £64,750 | £3,660 | £4,009 |
| Band 8b | £66,582 | £77,368 | £4,098 | £4,619 |
| Band 8c | £79,504 | £91,609 | £4,722 | £5,308 |
| Band 8d | £94,356 | £108,814 | £5,440 | £5,992 |
| Band 9 | £112,782 | £129,783 | £6,118 | £6,714 |
Band 1 is closed to new entrants and paid the same as Band 2. These figures are after income tax and National Insurance only. Most public sector staff pay into a pension, which takes a further share of pay. Add your own pension percentage in the take-home pay calculator for a closer figure.
What is Agenda for Change?
Agenda for Change is the national pay system for most NHS staff other than doctors, dentists and some senior managers. Jobs are placed in a band from 2 to 9 by job evaluation, and each band has one or more pay points. You start at the entry point and move up as you gain experience.
Pay in the rest of the UK
These scales are for England. Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland set their own NHS pay, and it can differ. Staff in London and some surrounding areas receive a High Cost Area Supplement on top of basic pay.
Frequently asked questions
What is the NHS pay scale for 2026/27?
From 1 April 2026 in England, Agenda for Change pay runs from £25,272 for Band 2 to £129,783 at the top of Band 9.
What is the starting salary for a newly qualified nurse?
Newly qualified nurses usually start on Band 5, which begins at £32,073 in England in 2026/27.
Are doctors on these bands?
No. Doctors and dentists have their own contracts and pay scales. Agenda for Change covers most other NHS staff.
Figures are for the 2026/27 tax year from official sources and are estimates for guidance only, not financial or legal advice. Printed from ukanswers.co.uk.