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How Much Do GP Locums Earn in London? (2025 Pay Guide)


Locum general practice has become one of the most popular career paths for UK doctors seeking flexibility, higher hourly rates, and control over their schedules. But one of the most common questions is: how much do GP locums actually earn in London?

In this 2025 guide, we break down real-world hourly rates, sessional pay, and annual income potential for locum GPs working in the capital.


Average GP Locum Rates in London

Most GP locum work is paid by the hour or by the session (typically 3–4 hours). Rates vary depending on the practice, workload, and demand.

Typical 2025 London rates:

  • Standard daytime sessions: £85–£110 per hour

  • Evenings, weekends, or urgent care: £100–£140 per hour

  • High-demand or short-notice shifts: up to £150 per hour in some cases

Although London is often associated with higher pay, some surveys suggest rates can be slightly lower than rural areas due to the higher supply of GPs.


Sessional and Daily Earnings

Most practices book locum GPs by session rather than by full days.

Typical sessional pay

  • £270–£330 per session (3–4 hours)

  • Some central London practices may offer more for urgent cover

Typical daily rates

  • £650–£850 per day

  • Premium or high-intensity shifts can exceed £900 per day


Annual Income Potential

Because locums are paid per session, annual income depends on how many sessions you work.

Estimated yearly earnings

  • Part-time locum (4–5 sessions/week): £70,000–£100,000

  • Full-time locum (8 sessions/week): £140,000–£180,000

  • High-intensity or premium shifts: £180,000+

These figures assume consistent work throughout the year.


What Affects GP Locum Pay in London?

Several factors influence your earnings as a locum GP:


1) Supply and demand

London has a large number of doctors, which can sometimes reduce rates compared with rural or hard-to-recruit areas.


2) Type of work

Rates vary depending on:

  • Routine GP surgery sessions

  • Urgent care or same-day clinics

  • Out-of-hours shifts

  • Home visits or on-call duties


3) Workload per session

Higher-paying sessions may involve:

  • More patients

  • Less admin time

  • Additional responsibilities


Locum vs Salaried GP: Pay Comparison

Role

Typical Annual Income

Salaried GP

£77,000–£98,000

Full-time Locum GP

£140,000–£180,000+

However, locum GPs usually:

  • Do not receive paid sick leave or annual leave

  • Cover their own indemnity and pension

  • Manage their own taxes and finances


Example Locum GP Income Scenarios

Scenario 1: Part-time locum

  • 4 sessions per week

  • £100 per hour

  • Approx. £75,000–£85,000 per year

Scenario 2: Full-time locum

  • 8 sessions per week

  • £105 per hour

  • Approx. £150,000–£170,000 per year

Scenario 3: Premium shifts

  • Mix of urgent and weekend sessions

  • £120 per hour average

  • £180,000+ per year potential


Is Locum GP Work in London Worth It?

Advantages

  • Higher earning potential

  • Flexible schedules

  • Variety of clinical settings

Disadvantages

  • Less job security

  • No employee benefits

  • Income may fluctuate

For GPs who value flexibility and autonomy, locum work in London can still be a highly attractive option.


Key Takeaway

Typical GP locum earnings in London (2025):

  • £85–£110 per hour (standard sessions)

  • £650–£850 per day

  • £140,000–£180,000+ per year full-time


Call to Action

Thinking about locum GP work in London?

Explore current opportunities, compare rates, and find flexible sessions that suit your schedule.



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