Night shift pay calculator
Work out what a night job really pays per shift, week, month and year, and how much of it is the night premium. Useful for comparing two offers with different rates, shift lengths and premiums.
Per year (before tax)
£29,557
£3,120 of that is night premium
- Per shift
- £142.10
- Per week
- £568.40
- Per month (average)
- £2,463.07
- Effective hourly rate
- £14.21
Gross pay, before tax and National Insurance. Monthly figures average 52 weeks over 12 months.
How night premiums work
There's no legal right to a night premium in the UK. Employers who pay one usually add either a flat amount per hour (often £1–£3) or a percentage of the base rate. Some pay it for the whole shift, others only for hours between set times such as 10pm–6am or midnight–6am.
Your base rate on its own still has to meet the National Minimum Wage. From April 2026 that's £12.71 an hour if you're 21 or over, £10.85 for 18–20s and £8.00 for under-18s and apprentices.
Comparing two night jobs
A higher hourly rate doesn't always mean more money. Compare yearly pay: four 12-hour nights at £13 an hour pays more than five 8-hour nights at £15. Check whether breaks are paid, and whether the premium applies to every hour.
Common questions
Do employers have to pay more for night shifts?
No. UK law doesn't require a night premium, but many employers pay one to attract staff. It's set in your contract or a collective agreement.
What is the minimum wage for night shifts in 2026?
The same as for day work: £12.71 an hour for workers aged 21 and over from 1 April 2026, £10.85 for 18–20 year olds and £8.00 for 16–17 year olds and apprentices.
Is a 20% night premium good?
It depends on the sector and the rest of the package, so compare yearly pay rather than the premium alone. On a £13 rate, 20% adds £2.60 an hour.