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:

  • It helps you prepare financially for the transition from Band 5.

  • It shows the rewards of advancing in your nursing career.

  • It gives you a realistic picture of your earning potential.

  • It helps you compare roles and decide if leadership or specialist work is right for you.

  • 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.

  • Starting Band 6 nurse: around £37,000 per year.

  • Experienced Band 6 nurse (top of the band): around £45,000 per year.

This works out as a monthly gross salary of approximately:

  • £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

  • Yearly: £37,000

  • Monthly: about £3,080

  • For newly promoted Band 6 nurses starting at the lowest pay point in the band.

Mid-Level Band 6 Nurse

  • Yearly: around £41,000

  • Monthly: about £3,415

  • After gaining more experience and moving up pay points within Band 6.

Top of Band 6 Nurse

  • Yearly: around £45,000

  • Monthly: about £3,750

  • 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

  • London and other high-cost areas pay High Cost Area Supplements, which can add up to £4,000–£7,000 annually.

Experience

  • Band 6 includes multiple pay points — as you gain experience, you progress within the band.

Shifts & Overtime

  • Unsocial hours pay (for nights, weekends, and bank holidays) can significantly boost earnings.

  • Voluntary overtime also increases take-home pay.

Specialist Roles

  • 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:

  • NHS Pension Scheme: Very generous compared to private sector pensions.

  • Annual Leave: At least 27 days, increasing with length of service, plus bank holidays.

  • Sick Pay: Paid sick leave for illness or injury.

  • Professional Development: Funded courses, leadership training, and career support.

  • Job Security: Permanent contracts with good employee protections.

  • Family Benefits: Enhanced maternity, paternity, and adoption leave.

  • 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:

  • Substantial pay rise compared to Band 5.

  • Leadership and specialist responsibilities.

  • Greater influence on patient care and team management.

  • Opportunities to develop advanced clinical or managerial skills.

  • 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:

  • Apply for a Band 7 position (e.g., Ward Manager, Advanced Nurse Practitioner) starting around £47,000–£55,000.

  • Complete specialist qualifications or master’s-level education.

  • Move into senior management or clinical lead roles at Bands 8–9.

  • 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