Ireland vs. UK: Where Do Healthcare Professionals Earn More?

For healthcare professionals considering a move or evaluating job opportunities, salary is a key factor. Ireland and the UK both offer rewarding careers in healthcare, but earnings can differ significantly depending on the role, experience, and location. In this article, we’ll compare healthcare salaries in Ireland and the UK to determine where professionals can earn more.

Nursing Salaries: Ireland vs. UK

1. Ireland

In Ireland, a newly qualified nurse typically earns between €30,000 and €35,000 per year. With experience, salaries can rise to €50,000 or more, especially for specialist roles or senior positions such as clinical nurse managers.

2. UK

In the UK, nurses working for the NHS start at £28,407 (€33,000) per year under Band 5 of the NHS pay scale. More experienced nurses, such as Band 6 or Band 7 professionals, can earn between £35,000 (€41,000) and £50,000 (€58,000) per year. Private sector salaries may vary but are often competitive.

3. Verdict

While starting salaries are relatively similar, the UK offers structured pay progression under the NHS. However, Ireland's private healthcare sector may offer higher wages for experienced professionals.

Doctors and Specialists: A Salary Breakdown

1. Ireland

   1. Junior doctors: €40,000 – €60,000 per year

   2. Consultants: €150,000 – €250,000 per year

   3. GPs: €100,000 – €150,000 per year

2. UK

   1. Junior doctors: £32,398 (€37,600) – £53,000 (€61,500) per year

   2. Consultants: £88,000 (€102,000) – £120,000 (€140,000) per year

   3. GPs: £60,000 (€70,000) – £120,000 (€140,000) per year

Verdict

Doctors in Ireland, particularly consultants, tend to earn higher salaries compared to their UK counterparts, especially in the public sector.

Healthcare Assistants and Allied Health Professionals

1. Ireland

   1. Healthcare Assistants: €25,000 – €35,000 per year

   2. Physiotherapists: €40,000 – €60,000 per year

   3. Pharmacists: €55,000 – €90,000 per year

UK

• Healthcare Assistants: £21,000 (€24,500) – £28,000 (€32,600) per year

• Physiotherapists: £30,000 (€35,000) – £50,000 (€58,000) per year

• Pharmacists: £37,000 (€43,000) – £55,000 (€64,000) per year

Verdict

Ireland generally offers higher salaries for allied health professionals, particularly pharmacists. However, the UK’s structured pay bands and benefits may appeal to some professionals.

Cost of Living Considerations

While salaries may be higher in Ireland for many roles, it’s essential to factor in the cost of living. Ireland, particularly cities like Dublin, has high housing and living expenses. In contrast, salaries in the UK might be lower, but the cost of living can vary significantly between regions, with some areas being more affordable than major Irish cities.

Which Country Pays More?

Overall, Ireland tends to offer higher salaries for senior and specialist healthcare roles, while the UK provides a more structured salary system under the NHS. For professionals prioritizing higher earnings, Ireland may be the better choice. However, the UK’s career progression, benefits, and cost of living should also be considered before making a decision.