Physiotherapist Salary UK
Physiotherapy pay in the UK splits into three routes. NHS pay follows Agenda for Change bands: in England from 1 April 2026, Band 5 is £32,073 to £39,043, Band 6 £39,959 to £48,117 and Band 7 £49,387 to £56,515. Employed private roles usually pay a base close to the NHS band. Self-employed income depends on fees, caseload and costs rather than a scale.
Typical mid-career
£42,170
Full range
£32,073-£77,368
Self-employed day
£250-£450
NHS figures here are the England Agenda for Change scales from 1 April 2026. Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland set their own scales and dates, so check your employer's current scale. Private and self-employed figures are indicative estimates, not survey data. Sources checked 3 October 2026.
Physiotherapist salary by experience
Newly qualified (NHS Band 5)
£32,073-£39,043
England 2026/27 scale, entry to top point. Most new graduates start here.
Experienced (NHS Band 6)
£39,959-£48,117
England 2026/27 scale. Usually after rotational posts.
Specialist or lead (NHS Band 7 to 8b)
£49,387-£77,368
England 2026/27 scales for specialist, extended-scope and team-lead posts.
How you're paid changes what you earn
NHS salary
Band 5 on qualification, Band 6 after rotations, Band 7 and above for specialist or lead roles. Pay rises by fixed steps within each band, with an NHS pension. Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland use their own scales.
Private employment
Clinic employers set their own pay. Base salaries are often close to the NHS equivalent, sometimes with a bonus linked to appointments. Ask for the base, bonus terms and pension.
Self-employed revenue
Income is fees received minus room rent or clinic split, insurance, registration and tax. It is revenue, not salary, and depends on how full your diary is.
Indicative estimate of self-employed fee income for a full day of private appointments, before room costs and tax. Not survey data.
What raises a physiotherapist salary
- A specialist caseload, for example musculoskeletal, neurological, pelvic health or post-surgical rehabilitation.
- Moving up a band through specialist or lead roles in the NHS.
- In private practice, a full diary and lower room or clinic costs.
- Recognition by private medical insurers, which can bring referrals.
Looking for a role or private clients?
See current physiotherapist roles on our jobs board. If none are open, the role page says so. Independent practitioners can also list a profile; we take no commission on fees.
Frequently asked questions
How much does a physiotherapist earn in the NHS?
In England from 1 April 2026, Band 5 pays £32,073 to £39,043, Band 6 £39,959 to £48,117 and Band 7 £49,387 to £56,515. Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland set their own scales.
Do private physiotherapists earn more than NHS ones?
Not automatically. Employed private roles often pay close to the NHS band. Self-employed physiotherapists can earn more or less depending on fees, caseload and costs.
Do physiotherapists need to be registered?
Yes. Physiotherapist is a protected title, and you must be registered with the HCPC to use it.