A Band 5 paramedic earns £29,970–£36,483 in 2026-27, taking home £22,748–£26,927/year (£1,896–£2,244/month) after income tax, NI and 9.8% NHS pension.
Paramedics are members of the NHS Pension Scheme — the same defined benefit CARE scheme as all NHS Agenda for Change staff. Contribution rates are tiered by band: Band 4 pays 6.1%, Band 5 pays 9.8%, Band 6 pays 10.7%, and Band 7 pays 12.5%. The employer contributes approximately 23% of salary. London High Cost Area Supplements (HCAS) are pensionable and add £1,478–£5,132/year on top of the AfC scale depending on zone.
Common questions about paramedic pay and take-home.