Latest update: The UK Home Office updated its Skilled Worker visa eligibility and salary thresholds. Many shortage occupations now require higher pay, with a minimum salary of around £38,700, helping align demand with local labour policy.
The most in demand jobs in the UK in 2025 are centered around critical sectors like healthcare, IT, engineering, and education. As per the UK’s Office for National Statistics (ONS), job vacancies have crossed 900,000+, with growing demand for nurses, software developers, data analysts, and teachers.
These roles are listed on the UK’s Shortage Occupation List, easing visa access for international applicants. For instance, average salaries for IT professionals exceed £40,000 (₹42.3 lakh) annually, while nurses earn starting salaries of £33,000 (₹34.9 lakh) per year.
Planning to upskill or move to the UK for better opportunities? Knowing the most in-demand jobs can guide smarter career choices. Also, consider the cost of living in the UK, as it impacts salaries, job selection, and lifestyle.
Read on to explore the 15 most in-demand jobs, salaries, and the qualifications employers want in 2025.
The UK job market is constantly changing, with certain professions seeing a surge in demand. For 2025, there are several high-demand jobs, especially in healthcare, technology, and data science.
Let’s take a look at the most in-demand jobs and what you need to know about them.
The NHS and private healthcare providers are actively looking to fill a shortage of 100,000 healthcare workers. With an aging population and rising healthcare demands, doctors, nurses, and paramedics are important to the UK's healthcare system.
Average Salary Range:
Doctors: £40,000 – £100,000+ (₹46.17 L – ₹115.42 L)
Nurses: £24,000 – £40,000 (₹28.10 L – ₹46.17 L)
Paramedics: £24,000 – £34,000 (₹28.10 L – ₹39.28 L)
Required Skills and Qualifications:
Doctors: Medical degree, clinical experience, specialty training.
The UK’s data economy is expected to grow by £19.5 billion by 2030, and data science professionals will be in high demand. Industries are increasingly relying on big data for decision-making, with the demand for data scientists and analysts expected to grow by 28% over the next decade.
Average Salary Range:
Data Scientist: £40,000 – £80,000 (₹46.17 L – ₹92.34 L)
Data Analyst: £30,000 – £50,000 (₹34.63 L – ₹57.72 L)
With the surge in cybercrime and data breaches, demand for cybersecurity experts is skyrocketing. According to Cybersecurity Ventures, the UK is expected to face a £1 billion loss in 2025 due to cyberattacks, which is why companies are urgently hiring cybersecurity professionals to protect sensitive data.
Average Salary Range:
Cybersecurity Analyst: £30,000 – £60,000 (₹34.63 L – ₹69.26 L)
Cybersecurity Consultant: £50,000 – £80,000 (₹57.72 L – ₹92.34 L)
Required Skills and Qualifications:
Cybersecurity Analyst: Proficiency in network security, firewalls, penetration testing.
Cybersecurity Consultant: Experience in ethical hacking, threat analysis, security compliance.
Industries Hiring:
Finance, IT security firms, government, telecommunications, retail.
4. Software Engineers and Developers
The UK tech industry is booming, with software engineers and developers being among the most in-demand professionals. The rise of cloud computing, mobile applications, and enterprise software has led to a growing need for skilled tech professionals. According to the UK Tech Report, software development roles are expected to grow by 24% by 2028.
Average Salary Range:
Software Engineer: £35,000 – £60,000 (₹40.04 L – ₹69.26 L)
Full Stack Developer: £40,000 – £75,000 (₹46.17 L – ₹86.63 L)
Required Skills and Qualifications:
Strong proficiency in Python, JavaScript, Ruby, and C++.
Experience with agile methodologies, cloud computing, and DevOps practices.
5. Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning Specialists
The rise of AI and machine learning (ML) technologies is transforming industries across the UK, from healthcare to finance and retail. With the UK investing heavily in AI research, there’s a huge demand for specialists who can develop and deploy machine learning models. By 2029, the AI sector is expected to be worth £16.3 billion in the UK.
Average Salary Range:
AI Specialist: £50,000 – £85,000 (₹57.72 L – ₹98.21 L)
The finance sector in the UK continues to be a major player in the economy, with accountants, financial analysts, and investment bankers in high demand. Post-Brexit, financial institutions are ramping up their hiring, particularly in risk management, taxation, and financial planning. The UK finance industry is expected to see a 10% increase in job openings over the next few years.
Average Salary Range:
Financial Analyst: £40,000 – £55,000 (₹46.17 L – ₹63.51 L)
Accountant: £30,000 – £45,000 (₹34.63 L – ₹51.94 L)
Investment Banker: £60,000 – £100,000+ (₹69.26 L – ₹115.42 L)
Required Skills and Qualifications:
Professional certifications like ACCA, ACA, or CFA.
Strong understanding of financial modeling, budgeting, and investment strategies.
The construction industry in the UK is booming, particularly with the government’s focus on infrastructure projects and housing development. The demand for civil engineers and construction managers is expected to rise as the UK works to build smarter, more sustainable cities. The UK construction sector is expected to grow by 5% by 2028.
Average Salary Range:
Civil Engineer: £30,000 – £50,000 (₹34.63 L – ₹57.72 L)
Construction Manager: £45,000 – £75,000 (₹51.94 L – ₹86.63 L)
Required Skills and Qualifications:
Civil Engineer: A degree in civil engineering, proficiency in AutoCAD, site management, and project planning.
Construction Manager: Strong leadership skills, project management, and knowledge of construction safety standards.
Industries Hiring:
Construction companies, engineering firms, government infrastructure projects.
8. Digital Marketing and SEO Specialists
As businesses increasingly turn to online platforms to reach their customers, digital marketing and SEO experts are in high demand. The digital marketing industry is set to grow significantly, with businesses investing more in online advertising and search engine optimization to stay competitive. The digital marketing sector is forecasted to reach £15 billion by 2027 in the UK.
Average Salary Range:
Digital Marketing Specialist: £30,000 – £45,000 (₹34.63 L – ₹51.94 L)
SEO Specialist: £28,000 – £40,000 (₹32.33 L – ₹46.17 L)
Required Skills and Qualifications:
Proficiency in Google Analytics, SEO tools (like SEMrush), content strategy, and social media marketing.
Experience with PPC campaigns, email marketing, and digital ad strategies.
9. Renewable Energy Experts (Solar, Wind, Sustainability Consultants)
With the UK’s commitment to net zero emissions by 2050, the demand for renewable energy experts is on the rise. Professionals working in solar, wind energy, and sustainability consulting are vital to helping the country meet its environmental goals. The renewable energy sector is expected to grow by 20% by 2029, particularly in wind and solar energy projects.
Average Salary Range:
Renewable Energy Specialist: £30,000 – £50,000 (₹34.63 L – ₹57.72 L)
Sustainability Consultant: £40,000 – £60,000 (₹46.17 L – ₹69.26 L)
Required Skills and Qualifications:
Knowledge of solar/wind energy systems, environmental regulations, and energy efficiency.
Experience in energy audits, sustainability certifications, and project management.
Industries Hiring:
Energy companies, consulting firms, government projects, green tech startups.
10. Project Managers
Project managers are essential in ensuring that projects are completed on time, within scope, and on budget. As industries like construction, IT, and engineering grow, the need for skilled project managers is increasing. In fact, according to a recent report by the UK Government, the demand for project management roles is expected to grow by 16% by 2030.
Average Salary Range:
Project Manager: £40,000 – £65,000 (₹46.17 L – ₹75.16 L)
As businesses look for ways to increase efficiency, business analysts are key to understanding processes and recommending improvements. The UK’s demand for business analysts is expected to grow by 20% by 2029, especially in industries like finance, healthcare, and technology.
Average Salary Range:
Business Analyst: £35,000 – £55,000 (₹40.04 L – ₹63.51 L)
Required Skills and Qualifications:
Expertise in data analysis, business process mapping, and problem-solving. Knowledge of Agile and Scrum methodologies is a bonus.
Supply chain and logistics managers are critical to ensuring products get from point A to point B efficiently and on time. With the UK economy focusing on global trade and e-commerce, these professionals are in high demand. The UK logistics sector is expected to grow by 10% by 2030, particularly in the wake of Brexit and the rise of online shopping.
With an increasing focus on quality education and skills development, the UK continues to experience a shortage of teachers, especially in subjects like math, science, and languages. According to the UK Department for Education, the country is projected to need over 10,000 new teachers by 2029. This shortage presents opportunities for qualified education professionals.
Average Salary Range:
Primary/Secondary Teacher: £25,000 – £45,000 (₹28.10 L – ₹51.94 L)
Special Needs Teacher: £30,000 – £50,000 (₹34.63 L – ₹57.72 L)
Required Skills and Qualifications:
Degree in education, PGCE (Postgraduate Certificate in Education), strong communication skills, patience, and subject-specific knowledge.
Industries Hiring:
Public schools, private schools, special educational institutions, online tutoring.
14. Social Care Workers and Psychologists
With an aging population and increased awareness around mental health, there is a rising demand for social care workers and psychologists in the UK. The UK government has outlined that more professionals are needed in the social care sector, including those working with vulnerable groups, the elderly, and individuals with disabilities. The mental health sector is growing due to greater emphasis on mental well-being.
Average Salary Range:
Social Care Worker: £22,000 – £35,000 (₹25.41 L – ₹40.04 L)
Psychologist: £30,000 – £50,000 (₹34.63 L – ₹57.72 L)
Required Skills and Qualifications:
For social care workers: Degree in social work or healthcare, strong interpersonal skills, experience in caregiving.
For psychologists: Degree in psychology, mental health certifications, and counseling experience.
Industries Hiring:
Healthcare, social care organizations, mental health services, government welfare services.
The legal sector in the UK continues to thrive, especially in fields like corporate law, compliance, and regulatory law. Solicitors and compliance officers are in high demand as companies and organizations focus on legal risks and regulations. The legal industry is expected to grow by 10% in the coming years, making it an excellent career path for those in law.
Average Salary Range:
Solicitor: £40,000 – £70,000 (₹46.17 L – ₹80.79 L)
Compliance Officer: £35,000 – £60,000 (₹40.04 L – ₹69.26 L)
Required Skills and Qualifications:
Solicitor: Law degree, Legal Practice Course (LPC), strong analytical and research skills.
Compliance Officer: Degree in law or business, knowledge of regulatory compliance laws, attention to detail.
Industries Hiring:
Law firms, banks, corporate companies, government bodies, regulatory authorities.
Skills Needed to Land a High-Demand Job in the UK
Employers look for a mix of technical expertise and soft skills that help professionals thrive in a dynamic work environment.
Marketing: Google Analytics, HubSpot Content Marketing
Healthcare: Advanced Life Support (ALS), Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC)
Tip: Employers value hands-on experience just as much as degrees. A candidate with certifications and real-world projects is often preferred over someone with just a degree.
Salary Expectations for the Most In-Demand Jobs in the UK
Salaries vary based on experience, location, and industry demand. London generally offers higher pay, but cities like Manchester, Birmingham, and Edinburgh also have great job opportunities with lower living costs.
Average Salaries in the UK by Industry
Job Role
Entry-Level Salary (GBP & INR)
Experienced Salary (GBP & INR)
Software Engineer
£30,000 - £40,000 (₹31-₹41 lakhs)
£60,000 - £90,000 (₹62-₹93 lakhs)
Cybersecurity Analyst
£35,000 - £45,000 (₹36-₹46 lakhs)
£70,000 - £100,000 (₹72-₹103 lakhs)
Data Scientist
£40,000 - £50,000 (₹41-₹52 lakhs)
£80,000 - £110,000 (₹83-₹114 lakhs)
Nurse (Healthcare)
£28,000 - £35,000 (₹29-₹36 lakhs)
£50,000 - £75,000 (₹52-₹78 lakhs)
Financial Analyst
£32,000 - £42,000 (₹33-₹43 lakhs)
£60,000 - £90,000 (₹62-₹93 lakhs)
Civil Engineer
£30,000 - £38,000 (₹31-₹39 lakhs)
£55,000 - £85,000 (₹57-₹88 lakhs)
Digital Marketing Manager
£28,000 - £38,000 (₹29-₹39 lakhs)
£55,000 - £80,000 (₹57-₹83 lakhs)
Note: Salaries are approximate and based on the latest data from Glassdoor UK 2025.
What You Need to Know:
Tech & finance jobs pay the most, with salaries nearly doubling after 5+ years of experience.
Healthcare & engineering roles are in demand, offering stability and long-term career growth.
Certifications and work experience can significantly increase salary potential.
Final Tip: If you’re aiming for a high-paying job in the UK, focus on in-demand skills and gain hands-on experience through internships, freelancing, or industry projects.
Work Visa and Immigration Options for High-Demand Jobs in the UK
If you're planning to work in the UK’s high-demand industries, getting the right visa is the first step. The Skilled Worker Visa is the most common route, but certain professions also benefit from relaxed requirements under the Shortage Occupation List.
Skilled Worker Visa: Eligibility & Process
You need a confirmed job offer from a UK employer approved by the Home Office.
The salary must meet minimum requirements (£26,200/year or £10.75/hour – ₹27 lakhs/year or ₹1,100/hour).
English proficiency proof is required (IELTS or equivalent).
Your employer must sponsor your visa application.
UK Shortage Occupation List: Why It Matters
Jobs on this list have lower salary thresholds and reduced visa fees.
Includes healthcare, IT, engineering, teaching, and construction roles.
Faster visa processing and higher approval rates for these occupations.
Employer Sponsorship Opportunities
Many major UK companies actively sponsor skilled worker visas, especially in tech, finance, and healthcare.
Some top visa-sponsoring employers include Amazon UK, Deloitte, NHS, and PwC.
How to Find Jobs in the UK for In-Demand Professions
Looking for a job in the UK? Here’s how to get started:
Top Job Search Websites
LinkedIn Jobs – Best for networking and applying directly.
Indeed UK – Covers all industries with a wide range of job postings.
Reed.co.uk – Strong in finance, IT, and legal jobs.
TotalJobs – Popular for engineering and technical roles.
NHS Jobs – Dedicated platform for healthcare positions.
Networking & Industry Events
Attend career fairs and industry networking events hosted by UK universities and professional bodies.
Join LinkedIn groups and online communities in your field.
Participate in webinars and conferences related to your industry.
Recruitment Agencies Specializing in High-Demand Jobs
Hays Recruitment – IT, engineering, and finance.
Michael Page UK – Healthcare, law, and digital marketing.
Robert Walters – Tech, finance, and business roles.
Teach First UK – Best for education and teaching jobs.
Final Tip: Polish your CV to UK standards, highlight relevant work experience, and start networking early. Many companies hire months in advance, so applying early increases your chances of landing the right job!
How upGrad Abroad Can Help You Study in the UK
Thinking about studying in the UK? upGrad Abroad offers clear support to make your journey easier and less stressful.
How upGrad Abroad Can Help You:
Learning Programs: We’ll help you choose the best university for you, saving you money on tuition and living costs. We provide free profile evaluation and recommend universities that fit your needs.
What career is most in demand in the UK right now?
As of 2025, healthcare (nurses, care workers), IT (software developers, cybersecurity), and engineering (civil, electrical) are the most in-demand careers in the UK. These roles are officially recognized on the UK Shortage Occupation List, which offers visa advantages and faster hiring processes.
Which jobs are in shortage in the UK according to the government?
According to the UK Home Office, shortage occupations include nurses, paramedics, civil engineers, care workers, secondary school teachers (especially in STEM), and chefs. These jobs qualify for Skilled Worker Visas with lower salary thresholds and fast-tracked applications.
Which job is best for Indians in the UK?
Indian professionals thrive in roles like software development, data analytics, healthcare, accounting, and teaching. Many UK-based employers value the global experience and English proficiency of Indian candidates, especially in tech and finance hubs like London and Manchester.
What jobs can be easily secured by foreigners in the UK?
Entry-level IT roles, nursing, hospitality, warehouse operations, and caregiving are among the easiest for foreigners to secure, especially if they’re on the UK Shortage Occupation List. Having a valid sponsorship or post-study work visa improves chances significantly.
Which jobs in London are high-paying yet accessible?
Tech (UI/UX designers, developers), finance (analysts), and healthcare (nurses, radiographers) offer high salaries in London. Entry points are accessible for skilled professionals with certifications or experience, and salaries are often adjusted for the city’s higher cost of living.
Are there jobs in demand in the UK for international students after graduation?
Yes, roles in digital marketing, business analytics, software development, and healthcare are commonly pursued by international students on the Graduate Route visa. These sectors often offer full-time positions post-graduation with visa sponsorship potential.
What jobs pay over $3,000/month (approx. £2,400 or ₹2.5 lakhs) in the UK?
Professionals in roles such as software engineers, marketing managers, financial analysts, architects, and registered nurses often earn over £2,400/month. Salaries are typically higher in cities like London, where living costs are also steeper.
What jobs in London Ontario should not be confused with UK jobs?
London, Ontario (Canada) also offers jobs in healthcare and education, but listings can confuse UK job seekers. Always verify country codes and job boards to ensure you're applying for roles in London, UK, not the Canadian city with the same name.
Are remote jobs in the UK accessible to foreign workers?
Some UK companies hire remote workers globally, especially in IT, content writing, and customer support. However, most full-time positions require UK residency or visa eligibility. Freelancing platforms may offer better flexibility for foreigners without UK work permits.
What are high demand jobs in the next 10 years in the UK?
AI specialists, machine learning engineers, sustainability consultants, digital health professionals, and renewable energy technicians are projected to grow rapidly. These fields are backed by government funding and long-term workforce strategies under the UK's digital and green economy plans.
What’s the difference between UK jobs for locals and foreigners?
While locals face fewer hiring restrictions, foreigners need to secure a work visa and often face competition for sponsorship. However, if your profession is on the shortage list or you possess niche tech skills, the hiring process can be faster and visa-friendly.
upGrad abroad Editorial Team |2710 articles published
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