10 most expensive jobs for life insurance premiums

Not all jobs are created equal when it comes to the cost of life insurance, which could cost you as little as £4.68 per month, or as much as £34. 

Certain professions seen as high-risk or hazardous by insurance companies can drive up rates. 

Here, we look at 10 jobs that could lead to higher life insurance premiums, what to consider before buying your policy – and ways in which you could save.

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10 jobs that can increase your life insurance premiums

Research from insurance broker LifeSearch has identified 10 jobs that tend to attract higher life insurance premiums. 

These average monthly premiums were calculated for a male applicant born on 3 December 1990, seeking £100,000 life cover over 20 years. The base premium for this demographic (assuming a non-hazardous job such as an admin assistant) would be £4.68.

The only variable in these calculations was the occupation; we've also made some assumptions about how applicants in each role would answer questions. 

Here are the 10 jobs that attract the highest premiums – prices given are monthly:

• Scaffolder: workers at heights over 40ft could pay £14.81
• Working at heights: builders working over 12 metres could pay £16.39
• Armed forces (navy): initial rates may apply, but adding ‘hazardous’ duties such as diving and parachuting could raise premiums to £20.91
• Combat sport professionals: professional boxers could pay £23.15
• Oil and gas (offshore): offshore engineers, working at heights and with machinery, could pay £27.64
• Deep sea workers: divers involved in deep-water (up to 60m) or saturation diving could pay £27.64
• Explosives handlers: demolition workers using explosives could face premiums of £27.64
• Aviation: commercial pilots may have standard rates, but private flying could lead to premiums as high as £34
• Professional motorsport: premiums are hard to estimate due to the high-risk nature of the job. A detailed assessment by a human underwriter, rather than the general systems most insurers use to quote, may be necessary
• Working overseas in hazardous territories: cover for such roles is often declined by insurers. For example, an engineer in Ukraine may have difficulty securing life insurance. 

Although these figures provide insight, they don't include factors such as BMI, smoking status, medical history, or specific hazardous activities, which can also affect premiums. Actual quotes may vary based on individual circumstances. You may wish to consider seeking advice from an independent adviser.

• Find out more: Life insurance for smokers 

What to think about before buying life insurance if you're in a high-risk job

Before buying life insurance, it's important to think about the specifics of your job and be prepared with details. For example:

• Motorsport professionals: be ready to provide information about your engine size, location of races, how often you race and your qualifications
• Aviation professionals: you'll probably be asked about your licences, how many hours you fly, the size of your aircraft, the locations flown to and if you carry passengers or cargo
• Deep-sea workers: expect questions about the size of the vessel and how you travel, for example, via helicopter to oil rigs.

Find out more: What is life insurance? The different types explained

5 tips to reduce your life insurance premiums

Here are five tips that could save you money when taking out a life insurance policy, regardless of your job:

1. Explore beyond banks and insurers: high-street retailers and supermarkets also sell life insurance these days. You might belong to a club or society that can get a discount through tie-ups with insurance providers.
2. Look for badged policies: sometimes one company sells another company's life insurance but labels it as their own. Prices can vary even if the product is the same and originally comes from the same insurer.
3. Consider a specialist financial adviser: companies such as LifeSearch will discuss your needs and provide you with a tailored quote. They have access to a wide range of insurers, including corporate and mutual ones.
4. Online brokers and price comparison sites: an online broker could offer cheaper prices and some return part of the commission they receive from insurers. Comparison sites such as Confused.com, Moneysupermarket.com or Comparethemarket.com can also help, but be sure to check multiple websites since no single site includes all options. You might find that the same insurer offers a better deal through one comparison site compared to others.
5. Check cashback websites: websites such as Quidco or TopCashback may offer cashback on insurance purchases, making your deal even cheaper. Remember to compare prices and understand your policy before buying. Making mistakes could mean your policy doesn't pay out as expected.

Find out more: Income protection explained

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4. Alan Boswell Insurance Brokers Ltd (FRN 301), for the introduction of non-investment landlord insurances, who are authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority to provide advice and arrange insurance contracts. Alan Boswell insurance brokers Ltd is registered in England at Prospect House, Rouen Rd, Norwich NR1 1RE, company number 02591252.

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