The average fully-loaded cost of a UK employee in 2026 is £45,000–£68,000 — roughly 1.35–1.4× the headline salary. Junior office hires sit at £32k–£42k loaded; mid roles £45k–£60k; senior £75k–£110k.
Fully-loaded 2026 UK employee cost: salary, NICs, pension, software, equipment, training, attrition. Real numbers by role and seniority.