Are public sector workers paid more than private sector workers?
In April 2025, median gross weekly earnings for full-time employees were £807.67 in the public sector and £752.28 in the private sector, according to the ONS Annual Survey of Hours and Earnings 2025, published on 23 October 2025. Over the year, public sector earnings rose 5.3% and private sector earnings 5.4%.
The ONS says the difference in pay growth is partly explained by the different mix of industries in each sector. Differences in pay levels also reflect the different jobs each sector does, so a raw comparison is not a like-for-like comparison of pay for the same job.
Monthly earnings growth by sector is covered in how public sector pay is decided. The 2026 survey results had not been published as of 13 October 2026, so check the ASHE page for the latest year.
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This answer says where the official figures are published and how they are defined. It gives no verdict on any claim. To report an error, send a correction request. More questions about public sector workers and pay: all Public sector workers and pay questions.