Tutoring Salary: What You Can Really Earn as a Private Tutor

If you’re thinking about tutoring, the first question is usually “how much will I get paid?”. The answer isn’t one‑size‑fits‑all – it depends on where you work, what you teach, and how you run your business. Below is a plain‑spoken rundown of the numbers you’ll see across the UK and how to move the needle on your earnings.

Factors That Influence Your Tutoring Pay

Location is a big driver. Tutors in London or other major cities often charge £30‑£50 per hour, while those in rural areas might earn £20‑£35. Subject matters too – A‑Level maths, physics or chemistry usually fetch higher rates than GCSE English or history because demand is high and supply is low. Experience matters; a fresh graduate may start at £20‑£25, but a tutor with five years of proven results can command £45‑£60.

How you deliver lessons also changes the picture. Online tutoring cuts travel costs and can broaden your client base, letting you charge a flat £30‑£40 per hour for a mixed‑level group. In‑person sessions, especially at a student’s home, often add a travel premium of £5‑£10 per session.

Finally, the type of contract matters. Working for an agency typically means a lower take‑home rate (around 60‑70% of what you’d charge directly) because the agency handles admin and marketing. Direct clients let you keep 100% of the fee, but you’ll need to manage invoices, taxes, and promotion yourself.

How to Set the Right Rate and Grow Your Income

Start by researching local rates on tutoring platforms and asking fellow tutors. Set a baseline that covers your time, travel, and any materials. Then add a “value” premium – if you have a strong track record of boosting grades, mention that and price accordingly.

Don’t be afraid to bundle. Offer a discount for a block of ten lessons or a group package for siblings. This encourages longer commitments and reduces gaps between sessions. Also, consider niche services like exam technique coaching or university admissions advice; those can bring in £50‑£80 per hour.

Marketing doesn’t have to be fancy. A simple website, a few testimonials, and a presence on local Facebook groups can bring steady leads. Ask satisfied families for referrals – word‑of‑mouth still beats paid ads for trust‑based services.

Keep track of your earnings and expenses. As a self‑employed tutor in the UK you’ll need to file a Self‑Assessment tax return. Setting aside 20‑25% of each payment for tax and National Insurance avoids a surprise bill at year‑end.

Finally, invest in yourself. Short courses on teaching methods, exam board updates, or even a quick certification can justify a higher rate and make you stand out in a crowded market.

Bottom line: a part‑time tutor in a mid‑size town can earn £20‑£30 per hour, while a specialist tutor in a high‑cost city can make £50‑£70 or more. By tweaking location, subject, delivery mode, and how you market yourself, you can shape a tutoring salary that fits your lifestyle and financial goals.