How Much Pocket Money Should Children Get in the UK in 2026?

Pocket money can be one of the most powerful tools parents use to teach children about money — from budgeting and saving to making thoughtful spending choices.

But with the cost of living continuing to change, many parents are asking:

How much pocket money is “right” in the UK in 2026?

How much pocket money is “right” in the UK in 2026?

At Smartmonies, we’ve reviewed recent UK surveys, pocket-money app data and financial education research to bring you a clear, practical guide.

Average Pocket Money in the UK (2025–2026)

Overall Average

Recent UK research suggests that children received around £10.73 per week in 2025, up roughly 8% from £9.92 in 2024.

This gradual increase reflects rising everyday costs and parents adjusting allowances in line with inflation — especially for older children with greater independence.

Typical Weekly Pocket Money by Age

Drawing on national surveys and Smartmonies analysis, these are the typical weekly ranges seen across UK families, alongside how they often shift by region:

Age Group	UK Typical Range	London & South East	North East, North West & Yorkshire	Midlands, Wales, South West & Northern Ireland
5–7 years	£2–£3	£3–£4	£2–£3	£1.50–£2.50
8–10 years	£4–£6	£5–£7	£4–£6	£3–£5
11–13 years	£7–£9	£8–£11	£7–£9	£6–£8
14–16 years	£10–£15	£12–£18	£9–£14	£8–£12
17–18 years	£70–£100/month	£90–£120/month	£70–£95/month	£60–£85/month

⚠️ These figures are indicative ranges rather than prescriptions. Families may choose to give more or less depending on household income, what the money is expected to cover, and how independent their child is.

What Do Pocket-Money Apps Show?

Digital pocket-money platforms provide another useful perspective.

One UK index from 2025 found that average “regular” pocket money — meaning a fixed allowance, excluding extra earnings for chores or bonuses — was around £3.85 per week per child.

Other large-scale studies, including industry analysis, still point to an overall average closer to £10.73 per week, because they include:

• Chore rewards

• One-off bonuses

• Higher allowances for teenagers

  
  

The takeaway?

👉 Different studies measure pocket money differently — and both types of data are useful. One reflects routine weekly allowances; the other shows what children actually receive in total.

Regional Differences Across the UK

Location matters too.

Families in London and the South East tend to give higher amounts than the national average, particularly for secondary-school pupils. In these regions, older children sometimes receive £12–£14 per week or more, reflecting higher day-to-day costs.

Elsewhere in the UK, averages can be slightly lower — reinforcing that pocket money should always fit your family’s circumstances rather than national headlines.

How Should Parents Decide What to Give?

Instead of copying averages, most UK financial education experts recommend thinking about:

• Your child’s age and maturity

• What the money is meant to cover (snacks, outings, transport, gifts, savings)

• Whether it’s linked to chores or given as a set allowance

• Your household budget

• Local cost of living

  
  

For example:

• Younger children often receive smaller weekly amounts for treats and early saving habits.

• Teenagers may need more to manage travel, social plans and clothing — helping them practise budgeting in real-world situations.

Final Thoughts from Smartmonies

Pocket money isn’t about keeping up with national averages or regional trends — it’s about helping children build confident, healthy relationships with money.

UK figures and regional patterns can offer helpful reference points, but the most effective approach is one that:

• Fits your household budget

• Reflects your child’s age and independence

• Matches what the money is expected to cover

• Encourages saving, planning and thoughtful spending

Ready to Level Up Their Financial Skills?

📘 Book a Smartmonies lesson today and help your child begin building essential financial skills for life.