Find out what a QS earns at your experience level, sector, and location. See monthly take-home after tax and NI. 2025/26 rates.
| Level | Experience | Salary Range | London Premium | With RICS MRICS |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Graduate QS | 0–1 years | £22,000–£28,000 | £26,000–£34,000 | +£2,000–£5,000 |
| Junior QS | 2–4 years | £28,000–£38,000 | £33,000–£46,000 | +£3,000–£8,000 |
| Quantity Surveyor | 5–9 years | £38,000–£55,000 | £46,000–£66,000 | +£5,000–£10,000 |
| Senior QS | 10+ years | £50,000–£70,000 | £60,000–£84,000 | +£5,000–£12,000 |
| Principal / Associate | Chartered | £65,000–£90,000 | £78,000–£110,000 | +£8,000–£15,000 |
| Director / Head of QS | Senior Leader | £80,000–£130,000+ | £95,000–£160,000+ | Required / Expected |
The Assessment of Professional Competence (APC) is the RICS assessment pathway to full chartered membership (MRICS). Key steps:
| Sector | Typical Pay | Advantages | Considerations |
|---|---|---|---|
| Main Contractor | Highest | Bonus potential, fast-paced, project variety | Long hours, site-based, commercial pressure |
| Consultant / PQS | Mid-High | Professional environment, RICS-focused, broad experience | Fee earning targets, client management |
| Client-Side / Developer | Mid-High | Strategic role, influence, fewer sites | Smaller teams, less specialist growth |
| Public Sector | Mid-Low | Pension, job security, regular hours | Lower pay, slower progression |
| Gross Salary | Income Tax | NI (Employee) | Monthly Take-Home | Annual Take-Home |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| £25,000 | £2,486 | £1,002 | £1,793 | £21,512 |
| £33,000 | £4,086 | £1,634 | £2,274 | £27,280 |
| £45,000 | £6,486 | £2,634 | £2,990 | £35,880 |
| £55,000 | £9,432 | £2,974 | £3,550 | £42,594 |
| £70,000 | £15,432 | £3,274 | £4,275 | £51,294 |
| £90,000 | £23,432 | £3,674 | £5,241 | £62,894 |
Based on 2025/26 tax rates. Standard Personal Allowance £12,570. Employee NI: 8% (£12,570–£50,270), 2% above. No other income assumed.