New Real Living Wage Rate Announced

15 October 2026

The Living Wage Foundation has announced that the Real Living Wage will increase by 4.8% in 2027. The new UK rate, excluding London, is £14.10 per hour and was announced today, 15 October 2026.

The Real Living Wage is independently calculated based on the cost of living and reflects what people need to cover everyday essentials. It is voluntary and separate from the Government’s statutory National Living Wage and National Minimum Wage. Accredited Living Wage employers are expected to implement the new rate as soon as possible and no later than 1 May 2027. They must also inform their staff of the new rate within one month of the announcement.

Further information about the new rate and the Living Wage Foundation’s announcement can be found here.