Mixed Picture for Lochaber Pay as Salaries Rise but Pressures Remain
Salaries across Lochaber have undergone significant change over the past decade, with new data revealing how earnings have shifted across key industries and roles. Analysis from HiJOBS highlights trends between 2016 and 2026, showing both areas of strong wage growth and sectors where pay has struggled to keep pace with inflation and rising living costs.
Over the past ten years, the average salary in Lochaber has increased from £24,854 to £29,956, representing a 20% rise. While this suggests positive progress overall, the picture varies significantly depending on sector, seniority, and demand for skills.
Across the Highlands more broadly, recent data shows salaries have risen strongly since 2019, but not evenly. Entry-level roles have seen some of the biggest gains, with Modern Apprenticeships (including graduate positions) up 81% to £31,682, reflecting both skills shortages and a growing focus on vocational pathways.
At the top end, the Financial Services sector now commands the highest average salary at £60,558, up 55% since 2019, while Director roles (average salary at £66,181) and industries such as Offshore, Oil & Gas and Energy continue to offer some of the strongest earning potential.
However, growth has been more modest in sectors that underpin local communities. Healthcare (average salary at £41,079), Social Care (average salary at £34,654) and Hospitality (average salary at £31,244) have all seen increases, but remain comparatively lower paid, reinforcing ongoing recruitment and retention challenges.
Christopher Snelgrove, Director at HiJOBS, said:
“While we’re seeing encouraging signs of salary growth across many sectors, the reality for both employers and candidates remain complex. Ongoing cost of living pressures mean jobseekers are prioritising pay and stability more than ever.”
Recent year-on-year changes highlight where pressure is most acute. HGV salaries have risen 18% in the past year, Automotive roles 21%, and both Offshore and Energy roles around 15%, as employers compete harder to fill critical roles.
Christopher went on to say:
“Employers are still facing significant challenges attracting the right people, particularly in rural and remote areas where housing, transport, and lifestyle factors all play a role.”
Overall, the data highlights a labour market that is growing, but unevenly. While higher-paying and specialist sectors continue to drive wage growth, many essential roles are still struggling to keep up, leaving employers across Lochaber and the wider Highlands facing ongoing challenges in attracting and retaining talent.
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Office Co-ordinator (Sales & Marketing) - Midton Acrylics Ltd
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Office Co-ordinator (Sales & Marketing) - Midton Acrylics Ltd
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