UK starting salaries see strongest growth in nearly eighteen months as hiring downturn eases
Starting pay for permanent staff grew at the fastest rate since 2024 as firms moved past budget uncertainty. Recruiters report a slight recovery in hiring.
Insights:
Starting salaries for permanent staff in the United Kingdom 
GB rose at their fastest pace since August 2024, according to the January REC/KPMG Report on Jobs released on February 9, 2026. The data also revealed that the contraction in permanent staff placements eased to its slowest rate since July 2024, signaling a moderation in the recent jobs downturn that has affected the national recruitment sector. This development is significant as changes in hiring and starting pay continue to influence labour market conditions and employer staffing decisions across the country.
GB rose at their fastest pace since August 2024, according to the January REC/KPMG Report on Jobs released on February 9, 2026. The data also revealed that the contraction in permanent staff placements eased to its slowest rate since July 2024, signaling a moderation in the recent jobs downturn that has affected the national recruitment sector. This development is significant as changes in hiring and starting pay continue to influence labour market conditions and employer staffing decisions across the country.The monthly report, which provides a comprehensive look at the UK GB employment landscape, is based on a survey of approximately 400 recruitment agencies. Data for this latest edition was collected between January 12 and January 26, capturing the sentiment and activity of hiring professionals. The findings were compiled by S&P Global Inc. on behalf of the Recruitment and Employment Confederation (REC) and KPMG, serving as a key evidence base for analysts and policymakers.
GB employment landscape, is based on a survey of approximately 400 recruitment agencies. Data for this latest edition was collected between January 12 and January 26, capturing the sentiment and activity of hiring professionals. The findings were compiled by S&P Global Inc. on behalf of the Recruitment and Employment Confederation (REC) and KPMG, serving as a key evidence base for analysts and policymakers.
