Financial adviser salaries in the UK have risen significantly over the past decade, driven by the post-RDR shift to fee-based advice, growing demand for retirement planning expertise, and a persistent shortage of qualified advisers. In 2026, the average total earnings for a qualified IFA sit between £75,000 and £110,000.
Average Financial Adviser Salary in the UK (2026)
| Employment Type | Basic Salary | Total Earnings (inc. bonus) |
|---|---|---|
| Employed IFA | £55,000 - £70,000 | £75,000 - £95,000 |
| Self-Employed IFA | N/A (drawings) | £80,000 - £130,000+ |
| Trainee / Junior Adviser | £28,000 - £42,000 | £30,000 - £48,000 |
| Senior / Portfolio Adviser | £70,000 - £95,000 | £100,000 - £160,000+ |
| London premium | +15-25% | +15-25% |
What Drives IFA Earnings?
An IFA’s earnings are closely tied to assets under advice (AUA). A self-employed adviser managing £20m AUA at 1% ongoing generates £200,000 gross before costs. Net earnings typically run at 45-60% of gross after network fees, PI insurance, compliance and software.
- Client book size - recurring ongoing service fees are the primary driver
- Specialisation - pension transfer, later life and protection specialists command premiums
- Chartered / Certified status - adds £10,000 - £20,000 to average earnings
- Location - London and South East 15-25% above national average
Financial Adviser Salary by Region (2026)
| Region | Average Total Earnings |
|---|---|
| London | £95,000 - £140,000 |
| South East | £80,000 - £110,000 |
| South West | £68,000 - £90,000 |
| Midlands | £65,000 - £85,000 |
| North West | £62,000 - £82,000 |
| Yorkshire | £60,000 - £78,000 |
| Scotland | £62,000 - £80,000 |
| Wales | £58,000 - £74,000 |
How to Become a Financial Adviser
All UK advisers must hold minimum QCF Level 4 qualification and be FCA-authorised. Main routes: CII Diploma in Regulated Financial Planning, adviser academies at Quilter/SJP/Schroders (paying £28,000 - £35,000 during training), or the paraplanner-to-adviser pathway over 3-5 years.
Find a Qualified Financial Adviser
Browse IFA firms in the Kaeltripton Financial Directory →
Frequently Asked Questions
All figures are indicative, based on industry recruiter data for 2025-2026.
What is the starting salary for a financial adviser?
Trainee advisers typically earn £28,000 - £42,000, rising to £45,000 - £60,000 once qualified.
Can IFAs earn over £100,000?
Yes. Self-employed IFAs with established books regularly earn £120,000 - £160,000+.
Are IFA salaries rising?
Yes. Since RDR in 2013, adviser remuneration has broadly doubled. The shortage of new entrants continues to push earnings up.
