Is £45,000 a Good Salary in Cardiff?
Updated June 2026 · HMRC 2026/27 rates · ONS data
Short answer: On £45,000 in Cardiff, your take-home is £2,993/month after tax. After estimated average costs in Cardiff, you have £1,302/month left.
Where Does £45,000 Rank in the UK?
UK median based on ONS ASHE 2025 full-time employee data. Local median derived from ONS regional pay data.
£45,000 After Tax in Cardiff
£2,993/month
Cost of Living in Cardiff on £45,000
Rent: ONS Private Rental Market Survey, April 2026. Energy: Ofgem price cap April 2026. Food: average spend.
Life on £45,000 in Cardiff
Excellent salary in Manchester, Birmingham or Leeds.
- Top 30% of earners in these cities
- Saving £700-900/month is achievable
- Home ownership within 3-4 years
- Very strong financial position
At £45k you are in a strong position — focus on saving rate
Home Buying Timeline in Cardiff
How Does Cardiff Compare?
See how your £45,000 salary goes in other UK cities:
Or use our Should I Move Simulator to compare your exact situation.
Calculate Your Exact Numbers
With £1,302/month left, see the estimated buying timeline for Cardiff.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is £45,000 a good salary in Cardiff?
Yes, £45,000 is a good salary in Cardiff. After tax and living costs, you have around £1,302 left each month — enough to live comfortably and save.
Is £45,000 comfortable in Cardiff?
Yes, £45,000 is comfortable in Cardiff. Rent takes only 33% of your take-home pay — within the recommended 33% — leaving good room for savings and lifestyle spending.
Can I afford to buy a house on £45,000 in Cardiff?
Home ownership is realistic on £45,000 in Cardiff. With £1,302 left each month, you can build a deposit over time. Use our Housing Affordability Tool to see your exact timeline.
Tax calculations based on 2026/27 HMRC rates for England, Wales and Northern Ireland. Scottish Income Tax rates applied for Edinburgh and Glasgow. Rent from ONS Private Rental Market Survey, April 2026. UK median salary from ONS ASHE 2025 (full-time employees: £37,430). Local salary medians derived from ONS regional pay data — approximations only. All figures are estimates. Last updated: June 2026.
Comfort level indicators are illustrative categories based on estimated disposable income and do not constitute financial advice. Individual circumstances vary significantly.