How much pocket money should you give? A UK guide by age
There's no single right number, but there are sensible UK benchmarks. Here's what parents typically pay by age, how to decide, and a free calculator to tailor it to you.
Typical UK pocket money by age
A common rule of thumb is around £1 per year of age per week, but in practice most families land a little lower for younger kids and higher for teens. These are indicative weekly averages:
| Age | Typical / week | Per month |
|---|---|---|
| 4 years | £2.00 | £9.00 |
| 5 years | £2.50 | £11.00 |
| 6 years | £3.00 | £13.00 |
| 7 years | £3.50 | £15.00 |
| 8 years | £4.00 | £17.00 |
| 9 years | £4.50 | £20.00 |
| 10 years | £5.00 | £22.00 |
| 11 years | £6.00 | £26.00 |
| 12 years | £7.00 | £30.00 |
| 13 years | £8.00 | £35.00 |
| 14 years | £9.50 | £41.00 |
| 15 years | £11.00 | £48.00 |
| 16 years | £12.50 | £54.00 |
Figures are indicative averages and vary by region - London and the South East tend to run higher.
Should pocket money be linked to chores?
Both approaches work, and many UK families mix them: a small amount given unconditionally (it's theirs to manage and learn from) plus extra earned through chores (effort is rewarded). The calculator lets you split any amount between the two so you can see what feels right.
Three tips that help it work
- Pick a payday and stick to it. Consistency teaches more than the exact amount.
- Let them make small mistakes. Spending it all on sweets is a cheap money lesson.
- Add a savings goal. A target they care about turns saving into something visible.