Prestige vs Pay: Would you choose a “high-status” job for £50k or a less skilled one for £100k? (UK)

Posted by Last_Somewhere9688@reddit | AskUK | View on Reddit | 51 comments

Genuine question and I’m curious what people think. Do you believe having a prestigious job (e.g. doctor, civil engineer) but being paid poorly say £50k with 8 years of experience is better than having a less skilled / less prestigious job with the same 8 YOE but earning £100k? I honestly don’t know what to think about this. I’m kind of somewhere in between. I do have a prestigious career, but it pays really badly, and I’m increasingly considering moving toward something that pays better even if it comes with less status. Is prestige, title, and perceived social value worth a big pay gap? Or does compensation ultimately matter more once you’re past the early-career stage? Interested in perspectives from people actually in “prestige” careers vs those who prioritised pay.