Are you searching for the Band 6 nurse salary in the UK in 2025? You are not alone. Many registered nurses across the United Kingdom and students planning their careers often ask: How much does a Band 6 nurse earn monthly and yearly in the UK?
Band 6 nursing roles represent the next step up from Band 5. These are senior positions that come with more responsibility, leadership, and better pay. Understanding the Band 6 salary helps you plan your career, assess promotion opportunities, and make informed financial decisions.
This guide explains everything you need to know about the Band 6 nurse salary in the UK for 2025, including a full monthly and yearly breakdown, benefits, allowances, and how to move further up the pay scale.
Why You Should Understand the Band 6 Nurse Salary in the UK
Understanding what Band 6 nurses earn is essential because:
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It helps you prepare financially for the transition from Band 5.
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It shows the rewards of advancing in your nursing career.
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It gives you a realistic picture of your earning potential.
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It helps you compare roles and decide if leadership or specialist work is right for you.
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It highlights extra allowances and benefits available at this level.
Band 6 salaries are based on the NHS Agenda for Change pay scale, which is reviewed annually and includes multiple pay points within each band.
How Much Do Band 6 Nurses Earn in the UK in 2025?
In 2025, Band 6 nurses in the UK typically earn between £37,000 and £45,000 per year, depending on experience and location.
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Starting Band 6 nurse: around £37,000 per year.
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Experienced Band 6 nurse (top of the band): around £45,000 per year.
This works out as a monthly gross salary of approximately:
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£3,080 to £3,750 per month before tax.
These figures exclude additional pay for overtime, unsocial hours, London weighting, and specialist allowances — all of which can raise your total earnings significantly.
Band 6 Nurse Salary Monthly & Yearly Breakdown
Below is a detailed breakdown of Band 6 pay in 2025, showing what you can expect at different stages of experience:
| Experience Level | Yearly Salary (£) | Monthly Salary (£, before tax) |
|---|---|---|
| Entry-level | 37,000 | 3,080 |
| Mid-level | 41,000 | 3,415 |
| Top of Band 6 | 45,000 | 3,750 |
Entry-Level Band 6 Nurse
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Yearly: £37,000
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Monthly: about £3,080
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For newly promoted Band 6 nurses starting at the lowest pay point in the band.
Mid-Level Band 6 Nurse
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Yearly: around £41,000
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Monthly: about £3,415
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After gaining more experience and moving up pay points within Band 6.
Top of Band 6 Nurse
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Yearly: around £45,000
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Monthly: about £3,750
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Maximum salary within Band 6 before progressing to Band 7 or a different role.
Factors That Affect Band 6 Nurse Salaries
Several factors can influence your earnings as a Band 6 nurse:
Location
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London and other high-cost areas pay High Cost Area Supplements, which can add up to £4,000–£7,000 annually.
Experience
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Band 6 includes multiple pay points — as you gain experience, you progress within the band.
Shifts & Overtime
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Unsocial hours pay (for nights, weekends, and bank holidays) can significantly boost earnings.
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Voluntary overtime also increases take-home pay.
Specialist Roles
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Certain Band 6 specialities (e.g., critical care, emergency, oncology) may offer additional premiums or be in higher demand.
Additional Benefits for Band 6 Nurses
In addition to the base salary, Band 6 nurses enjoy many benefits:
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NHS Pension Scheme: Very generous compared to private sector pensions.
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Annual Leave: At least 27 days, increasing with length of service, plus bank holidays.
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Sick Pay: Paid sick leave for illness or injury.
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Professional Development: Funded courses, leadership training, and career support.
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Job Security: Permanent contracts with good employee protections.
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Family Benefits: Enhanced maternity, paternity, and adoption leave.
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Staff Discounts: Across retail, travel, and leisure industries.
Advantages of Moving from Band 5 to Band 6
Progressing to Band 6 comes with many rewards:
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Substantial pay rise compared to Band 5.
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Leadership and specialist responsibilities.
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Greater influence on patient care and team management.
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Opportunities to develop advanced clinical or managerial skills.
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Stronger CV for future promotions.
How to Progress Beyond Band 6
If you aim to earn even more and move beyond Band 6, here’s what you can do:
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Apply for a Band 7 position (e.g., Ward Manager, Advanced Nurse Practitioner) starting around £47,000–£55,000.
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Complete specialist qualifications or master’s-level education.
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Move into senior management or clinical lead roles at Bands 8–9.
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Take on secondments or projects that broaden your leadership experience.
Frequently Asked Questions: Band 6 Nurse Salary in the UK 2025
What is the starting salary for a Band 6 nurse in the UK?
In 2025, entry-level Band 6 nurses earn about £37,000 per year or £3,080 per month before tax.
How much does an experienced Band 6 nurse earn?
At the top of the band, salaries reach about £45,000 per year or £3,750 per month.
Do Band 6 nurses in London earn more?
Yes. London weighting can add £4,000–£7,000 annually, depending on the area.
How long does it take to move from Band 5 to Band 6?
Typically, 2–5 years, depending on your experience, training, and available opportunities.
Can Band 6 nurses earn more than their basic salary?
Yes. Overtime, unsocial hours, and specialist duties can all increase your pay beyond the basic salary.
Final Thoughts: Band 6 Nurse Salary in the UK 2025
Becoming a Band 6 nurse in the UK is a significant career milestone. It reflects your experience, leadership skills, and dedication to patient care.
In 2025, Band 6 nurses earn between £37,000 and £45,000 per year, or £3,080 to £3,750 per month, depending on their experience, location, and shifts.
With additional benefits, allowances, and opportunities for further progression, Band 6 is both a rewarding and financially secure stage in your nursing career.
If you are a Band 5 nurse looking to advance or already a Band 6 considering your next step, understanding this pay structure will help you plan your future confidently.
Summary Table: Band 6 Nurse Salary UK 2025
| Experience Level | Yearly Salary (£) | Monthly Salary (£) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level | 37,000 | 3,080 | Newly promoted Band 6 |
| Mid-level | 41,000 | 3,415 | A few years’ experience |
| Top of Band 6 | 45,000 | 3,750 | Maximum in Band 6 |
| London Band 6 | Up to ~52,000 | ~4,330 | Includes London weighting |
| With unsocial hours/overtime | Varies | Higher | Depends on shifts worked |