Short answer
£30,000 in London is below the UK median of about £37,430 (20% lower). Manageable in lower-cost regions; stretched in big cities.
How it compares to the UK median
The latest ONS figure for median full-time earnings is roughly £37,430. £30,000 is £7,430 below that, placing it in the lower half of UK earners.
What it looks like after tax
For 2026/27, £30,000 gross gives you about £25,120 per year (£2,093 per month) — after £3,486 Income Tax and £1,394 National Insurance. The calculator below lets you add a pension or student loan.
Cost of living in London
Housing is the biggest variable. In London, average rent for a one-bed flat ranges widely; outside London, £30,000 typically covers rent, bills, transport and modest savings with room to spare. In central London, the same figure is materially tighter.
Who finds £30,000 comfortable?
Single earners outside major city centres, dual-income households in cities, and anyone without significant debt repayments will find £30,000 comfortable in 2026/27.