Wondering What Trade Makes the Most Money in the UK?

You see other trades pulling in solid money, buying new vans, getting the latest tools, and filling their schedules. You've got the skills, so why not you?

In the UK trade industry, not all paths pay the same. While many trade jobs offer reliable income, some stand out for their high earning potential, especially if you've got the practical skills, technical knowledge, or drive to work for yourself.

And don't worry, you don't need a university degree or decades of experience to get started.

This guide explores what trade makes the most money in the UK. We'll look at the highest paying trades and what it takes to be a top earner so you can build a profitable career.

Why Some Trade Jobs Pay More Than Others

The highest-paying trade jobs don't just happen by chance. Several factors separate the decent earners from the top performers in skilled trades.

Skill Level and Certification

More technical trades typically pay more due to specialised knowledge that fewer people possess. When you need technical knowledge of electrical systems, HVAC systems, or complex construction management processes, employers and clients pay premium rates.

Licensing and qualifications increase trust and charge-out rates significantly. A qualified electrician with proper certifications can command higher wages than someone without credentials, even with similar practical skills.

Demand and Regional Shortages

Higher demand equals higher prices for skilled workers across all paying trades. When there's a shortage of qualified tradespeople in specific areas, wages rise naturally as employers compete for talent.

Some regions face trade shortages, especially in housing and infrastructure projects. Areas with major construction projects or new housing developments often see increased wages for building inspectors, construction managers, and specialist trades.

Self-Employment Opportunities

Many tradespeople run their own businesses or subcontract their services, which opens up significantly higher earning potential. Being self-employed allows you to set your own rates and take on multiple clients.

More control over pricing, workload, and profits means the difference between average trade job salaries and six-figure incomes. The most successful trades typically offer strong opportunities for independent work.

Which UK Trade Jobs Make the Most Money?

Let's look at the trades that bring in the biggest paychecks, and why they lead the pack in terms of median annual salary and job security. These salary averages are from the National Careers Service.

Plumbers

The average salary for plumbers is ~£24,000/year (starter) to ~£46,000/year (experienced). Self-employed plumbers usually tend to be the highest earners. 

High demand exists across commercial buildings, residential properties, and emergency repair sectors. The combination of essential services and technical expertise makes this one of the highest-paying trades consistently.

Self-employed plumbers often earn significantly more, especially in emergency call-outs where hourly rates can reach £80-120. The job market remains strong due to constant demand for both new installations and maintenance work.

Required certifications include NVQ Level 2/3 and Gas Safe registration for heating work. Many start through apprenticeship programs or practical training with experienced professionals.

Electricians

For electricians, the average salary is ~£26,000/year (starter) to ~£45,000/year (experienced). Excellent earning potential exists in both domestic and commercial work, with job openings consistently available across various industries. Being an electrician is great for job security and career development opportunities.

Specialist areas like electrical power systems, renewable energy, and industrial electrical work can push salaries higher. An electrician can earn premium rates for complex installations or emergency repairs.

Required qualifications include NVQ Level 3, AM2 assessment, and an ECS card. The trade schools and apprenticeship programs provide solid foundations, though on-the-job training remains crucial for career advancement.

Bricklayers

Bricklayers enjoy an average salary of ~£25,000/year (starter) to ~£45,000/year (experienced). Bricklayers are one of the highest-paying trade jobs in construction.

Core demand exists in residential and commercial construction projects, making bricklaying a reliable trade job with consistent work availability. Speed and quality directly affect earning potential in this physically demanding field.

Entry typically happens through apprenticeships or labourer-to-trade progression routes. Many trades workers start as general labourers before specialising, gaining practical skills and hands-on work experience.

The job outlook remains positive due to ongoing construction demand, though work can vary depending on economic conditions and seasonal factors.

Carpenters

Average Salary: ~£24,000/year (starter) to ~£40,000/year (experienced) based on National Careers Service figures. Carpenters enjoy consistent demand across multiple sectors.

Consistent demand exists in construction, refurbishment, and joinery work. The trade offers diverse career options from general carpentry to specialist areas requiring specific practical skills.

Niche roles in heritage restoration or bespoke interior work can push income significantly higher. These specialist areas often require additional training but offer excellent earning potential for skilled tradespeople.

Skills development typically happens through apprenticeships, technical schools, or on-site practical training with experienced carpenters. Many successful carpenters combine formal education with extensive hands-on work experience.

Plasterers

Plasters have an average salary of ~£21,000/year (starter) to ~£38,000/year (experienced) according to National Careers Service data. While starting salaries are lower, experienced plasterers command good rates.

This finish-focused trade sees high demand in new builds and renovation projects. The work requires precision and craftsmanship, making skilled plasterers valuable in the job market.

Quality work, speed, and professional reputation can significantly boost rates and customer referrals. Many plasterers work self-employed or as subcontractors, allowing better control over earnings.

Strong freelance opportunities exist, with many plasterers building successful businesses around repeat clients and word-of-mouth referrals.

Highest Paying Trade Jobs Comparison

Here's how the top-earning trades stack up based on experienced worker median salaries and earning potential:

These figures represent employed positions. Self-employed tradespeople often earn significantly more, especially those who specialise in high-demand areas or run successful businesses.

Some Trades Jobs Work Considering

Let's look at specific positions that consistently bring in good money and offer solid career prospects.

Construction Manager

Construction managers coordinate projects, oversee safety regulations, and manage teams. They typically earn between £35,000 and £65,000 annually, with senior roles reaching higher. Most positions require extensive experience, though not necessarily a college degree or a bachelor's degree.

A construction manager must understand the construction process, manage multiple construction projects simultaneously, and coordinate with various industry professionals. The role combines technical knowledge with management skills.

HVAC Technician

HVAC technicians install and maintain heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems. An experienced HVAC technician can earn £25,000-£45,000 annually, with specialists in commercial systems earning more.

The work involves both technical knowledge of HVAC systems and practical skills for installation and repair. Job demand remains high as buildings increasingly require sophisticated climate control systems.

Building Inspectors

Building inspectors check that construction work meets safety regulations and building standards. Salaries typically range from £28,000 to £50,000, depending on experience and location.

The role requires detailed technical knowledge, understanding of safety regulations, and the ability to assess construction quality. Many building inspectors have backgrounds in construction trades before moving into inspection work.

Dental Hygienist and Medical Sonographers

While not traditional trades, diagnostic medical sonographers and dental hygienists represent skilled, well-paying careers requiring technical training rather than a college degree. A dental hygienist typically earns £25,000-£40,000 annually.

These roles demonstrate that many high-paying jobs exist outside traditional university education paths, requiring specialised practical training instead.

How to Maximise Earnings in Any Trade

Regardless of which trade you choose, certain strategies help you reach the higher end of salary ranges and build long-term earning potential.

Specialise in High-Demand Niches

Focus on in-demand niches like rewiring older properties, heritage carpentry restoration, or emergency plumbing services. Specialisation often commands premium rates compared to general work.

Keep Learning New Skills

Upskill through practical training, manufacturer certifications, or additional qualifications. The best-paid trades workers continuously develop new skills and stay current with industry changes.

Build Your Professional Reputation

Offer excellent customer service and systematically collect reviews and testimonials. Reputation directly affects rates and repeat business opportunities, especially for self-employed tradespeople.

Get Your Systems Sorted

Use professional systems to keep jobs, cash flow, and scheduling organised. Efficient operations allow you to take on more work and reduce time wasted on administration.

Manage Jobs Better and Earn More with Intrflex

To earn at the higher end of any trade, you need both skills and efficient business operations. But poor job management, missed appointments, and payment delays can seriously impact your earning potential.

• Track every job, quote, and invoice in one centralised system
• Avoid missed payments and reduce time drain from administrative tasks
• Stay organised with appointments, staff schedules, and material orders
• Built specifically for UK trades, including plumbing, electrical, carpentry, and HVAC work

Intrflex service management software helps you operate more professionally and efficiently, leaving more time for the actual trade work that generates income.

Skills vs. Education: What Really Matters in High-Paying Trades

Many of the highest-paying trades don't require a college degree or an associate's degree. Instead, they value practical skills, technical knowledge, and work experience gained through apprenticeships and on-the-job training.

While some positions benefit from higher education or bachelor's degree qualifications, most successful tradespeople build their careers through:

• Apprenticeship programs that combine learning with paid work experience
• Technical schools focused on specific trade skills rather than general education
• On-the-job training with experienced professionals
• Manufacturer training for specific equipment or systems
• Safety and regulatory certifications relevant to their field

A high school diploma provides the foundation, but success comes from developing the required skills through practical experience and continuous learning. The job search process often focuses more on demonstrated ability than formal qualifications.

Career Development and Long-Term Success

Building a profitable career in any trade requires thinking beyond just the median annual salary figures. Consider factors like job security, available jobs in your area, and potential for career advancement.

Power plant operators, aircraft mechanics, and property appraisers represent examples of specialised trades with excellent job outlook and earning potential. These roles often require specific certifications but offer stable careers in high-demand sectors.

Career development happens through gaining experience in different areas, taking on more complex projects, and eventually moving into supervisory or business ownership roles. Many successful tradespeople start as apprentices and eventually run their own companies.

The trade industry offers multiple pathways for advancement, whether through technical specialisation, business ownership, or moving into management roles within larger organisations.

Job Market Reality: Demand vs. Supply

Current job market conditions favour skilled tradespeople across most regions. Labor statistics show consistent demand for qualified workers, with many trades experiencing skills shortages.

Factors driving demand include:

• Ongoing housing construction and renovation work
• Infrastructure investment requiring skilled labour
• Aging workforce creating opportunities for new entrants
• Technology changes requiring updated technical knowledge

Job demand varies by region and economic conditions, but skilled trades generally offer better job security than many other career paths. The combination of essential services and technical expertise creates consistent work opportunities.

Different trades show varying levels of demand. Emergency services like plumbing and electrical work remain consistently busy, while construction-related trades may fluctuate with building activity.

Physical Demands and Working Conditions

Most trades involve physically demanding work, often in challenging environments. Consider these factors when choosing a career path:

• Working in tight spaces or at heights
• Exposure to weather conditions for outdoor work
• Physical requirements for lifting, kneeling, or repetitive motions
• Potential safety hazards require strict adherence to safety regulations

While the work can be physically challenging, proper training, safety equipment, and good work practices help manage these demands. Many tradespeople maintain long, healthy careers through proper technique and physical fitness.

The hands-on work aspect appeals to many people who prefer practical problem-solving over desk-based employment. Job satisfaction often remains high among skilled tradespeople who enjoy seeing tangible results from their work.

Choose the Trade That Pays (and Works) for You

There's no single answer to what trade makes the most money because the most lucrative will be the one you have the passion to excel in. Some people thrive on the tools and technical challenges. Others want to build a team or work solo and keep it simple. What matters is finding a trade job that fits your strengths and gives you room to grow.

If you're already in the trades and looking to boost income, the next step is working smarter. That's where Intrflex service management software can help. It keeps your job tracking, cash flow, and client communications organised so you earn more without the admin headache.

Book a demo to see how Intrflex can help you boost your earnings.