How do salaries in Devon compare to the UK?

Whether you live on Dartmoor, the beach, or a quaint village, Devon offers a quality of life that many people dream of. But how does Devon stack up when it comes to salaries?

The Devon lifestyle trade-off

Devon is known for its relaxed pace of life and beautiful surroundings, so it’s no surprise that many people are drawn to living here. However, the reality is that salaries in Devon often tend to be lower than in other parts of the UK, particularly compared to major cities like London, Birmingham, or Manchester.

The average salary in Devon hovers around £28,000-£30,000, which is slightly below the national average of £33,000. While this might seem concerning at first glance, it's essential to remember that the cost of living here is typically slightly lower.

Why are salaries lower in Devon? 

Devon’s economy is primarily driven by sectors such as tourism, agriculture, healthcare, and education, which traditionally offer lower salaries compared to finance, tech, or other high-paying industries. In contrast, cities like London have large concentrations of high-paying jobs in finance, law, and technology.

Additionally, Devon doesn’t have the same density of large corporate headquarters or international companies that cities like London or Manchester do, which can lead to fewer high-paying job opportunities.

The rise of remote work: a silver lining? 

However, the rise of remote working has begun to reshape the salary landscape. More and more people are moving to Devon while keeping their city-based jobs. This allows them to earn a competitive salary and enjoy the benefits of living in a scenic location.

In recent years, the tech industry in particular has seen significant growth in remote work opportunities. This shift could mean that Devon residents who work for companies outside the region can still command higher salaries typical of major cities, while enjoying the perks of coastal and countryside living.

Industry-specific insights 

• Tourism & hospitality: As a tourist hotspot, Devon's tourism industry is significant, but wages in this sector tend to be on the lower end of the scale compared to other regions.
• Agriculture: Farming is a traditional mainstay of Devon's economy. While important, this sector often provides lower wages than urbanized, tech-centric regions.
• Healthcare & education: These sectors are large employers in Devon. While salaries can vary widely depending on role and experience, they are generally competitive with national averages.
• Tech & digital: This is one of the fastest-growing sectors in Devon, with cities like Exeter becoming small tech hubs. Salaries in tech are typically higher, and this growth could help close the pay gap with more urban areas.

Devon’s appeal: a balanced life 🌅

While salaries in Devon are typically lower than in other parts of the UK, the lifestyle it offers can make up for this difference. Lower costs, remote working possibilities, and a better quality of life—who wouldn’t want to swap the hustle and bustle of the city for a more peaceful existence by the sea?

For many, the decision to live in Devon is about balance. Sure, you may earn a little less, but the trade-off is a quieter life, with access to nature and less stress. For those who can work remotely, it’s the best of both worlds: earning a city salary while living in a rural paradise.

So, while Devon may not yet rival London in salary stakes, the advantages it offers in terms of lifestyle, well-being, and affordability are difficult to beat!