Students who are undergoing career planning, young professionals looking for new job opportunities, and seasoned workers planning their next move or career pivot, will all be wondering which is the best city to find a job in the UK. Before we can answer that burning question, we need to pause and consider what constitutes the best UK cities to find job openings and work.
The answer will be different for everyone, and the best city for you might be down to one high-priority factor, or a combination of many things. Average salary by city and employment opportunities could be your top consideration. But how about living costs, average rent, average property prices, remote working opportunities, business density, unemployment rate, and happiness?
For most of us, there are visibly multiple criteria to contemplate and the certain characteristics of cities in the UK will make a difference and steer our focus.
In this review of life satisfaction, employment opportunities, and UK average salaries, we explore these topics:
Quick Links:
- Summary: The Best Cities In The UK For Job Opportunities
- Best City For Job Opportunities And Highest Average Salary FAQs
Highlights And Key Takeaways:
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The South East of the UK has the highest employment rate.
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London, unsurprisingly, continues to rank highest among the best-paying cities, offering an average salary of £40,262.
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Reading and Birmingham follow closely, offering attractive inflation-beating salary growth with more affordable housing costs.
What To Consider When Choosing A Place To Work And Live
When choosing a place to work and live, there are several significant factors to consider. These factors can greatly impact your overall satisfaction, quality of life, and opportunities for personal and professional growth.
Here are some key considerations:
1. Job Opportunities:
Research the job market in the area you are considering. Look for industries that are thriving with good employment rate growth, as well as opportunities for career advancement and professional development. Consider the availability of jobs in your field, business density, the UK average wage, and whether the city offers a diverse range of industries to explore.
2. Cost of Living:
Assess the cost of living in the city or area you are considering. Look into housing prices, rental costs, transportation expenses, and everyday necessities. It will make a big difference to consider whether your income will be sufficient to support your lifestyle and financial goals, considering factors such as taxes and healthcare expenses.
3. Work-Life Balance:
Consider the work culture and the emphasis you put on work-life balance in the region. Look into factors such as average working hours (can you work the hybrid way?), vacation policies, and the general attitude towards work and leisure time. A place that values work-life balance can contribute to a healthier and more fulfilling lifestyle.
4. Quality of Education and Healthcare:
If you have a family or plan to start one, it's vital to evaluate the quality of education and healthcare facilities in the area. Research the availability of good schools, colleges, and universities, as well as the accessibility and quality of healthcare services.
5. Lifestyle and Amenities:
Consider your personal preferences and the lifestyle you desire. Evaluate factors such as climate, cultural and recreational opportunities, proximity to green spaces, and access to amenities like parks, restaurants, shopping centres, and entertainment venues. Think about the activities and hobbies you enjoy and whether the location can support your interests.
6. Safety and Security:
Assess the crime rates and general safety of the area. Look into the community's reputation over the past decade for safety and consider factors such as the presence of law enforcement, the overall crime rate, and access to healthcare facilities in emergencies.
7. Social and Cultural Environment:
Consider the social and cultural environment of the area. Think about factors such as diversity, community engagement, social activities, and the overall atmosphere. Some people thrive in the fastest growing cities, while others prefer quieter, close-knit communities.
8. Commute and Transportation:
Evaluate the transportation options available in the area and consider how they will impact your daily commute. Assess the quality of public transportation, parking availability, traffic congestion, and proximity to motorways or airports if travel is important to you.
Ultimately, the best place to work and live will depend on your needs, preferences, and career goals. Do you need to live where there is the highest density of booming tech companies and high salary growth or is it more crucial to find affordable cities where the main financial stresses are less with low cost accommodation?
Taking the time to research and consider these factors will help you make an informed decision that aligns with your lifestyle and career aspirations. Visit our career advice hub for more guidance and tips.
Best Cities In The UK By Highest Average Salaries
If you are studying, career planning, or searching for the highest paying jobs in the UK, then you may not be surprised to hear that London offers job seekers the highest average salary and best salary growth. The next highest-paying city for highly skilled workers is Reading. The complete best city list by average salary and the current UK average salary for each city is below:
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London average salary: £40,262
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Reading average salary: £37,237
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Birmingham average salary: £35,369
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Sunderland average salary: £34,169
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Newcastle Upon Tyne average salary: £32,892
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Cardiff average salary: £32,856
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Leeds average salary: £32,653
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Glasgow average salary: £31,876
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Liverpool average salary: £31,806
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Leicester average salary: £30,891
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Edinburgh average salary: £30,887
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Nottingham average salary: £30,850
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Coventry average salary: £30,765
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Sheffield average salary: £29,299
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Bradford average salary: £28,845
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Wakefield average salary: £27,778
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Belfast average salary: £27,417
Average Salary In UK Cities For All Business Sectors
The average salary and top salary you can earn in UK cities for each of these business sectors can be found below:
Best Cities In The UK For Job Opportunities
According to a study completed by Ciphr, the top cities in the UK for job opportunities, include the following:
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Milton Keynes
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Oxford - top for employment rate growth and happiness
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York
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St Albans - top for lowest unemployment rate and highest average income
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Norwich
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Cambridge - highest number of job listings per person
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Colchester - best for salary growth
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Aberdeen
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Bristol
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Coventry
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Leeds
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Canterbury - top for life satisfaction)
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Gloucester
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Doncaster - best for average property price and housing affordability
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Wrexham
Best UK Cities By Happiness And Life Satisfaction
According to the latest Annual Personal Wellbeing Survey conducted by the Office for National Statistics, residents of Winchester, Lancaster, and Oxford experience higher levels of life satisfaction and happiness compared to other cities in the study. These ‘best cities’ obtained an average score of approximately 15.5 out of 20, indicating a strong sense of contentment and happiness among residents and the city’s workforce.
Among the cities examined, Canterbury and Lancaster emerged as the places where people and skilled employees feel the most satisfied with their lives overall, both scoring 7.91 out of 10. On the other hand, Oxford stood out as the city with the highest level of happiness among its residents, with a score of 7.71 out of 10.
Summary: The Best Cities In The UK For Job Opportunities
In an era marked by remote and hybrid working, the search for the best cities to find jobs in the UK is increasingly influenced by a range of factors beyond average earnings. Comparing multiple factors, including recent salary growth, job vacancies, and the local population’s general level of wellbeing, provides a more holistic view of the best locations for job hunting.
London, unsurprisingly, continues to rank highest among the best-paying cities, offering an average salary of £40,262. This figure is above the national average, reflecting strong local economic activity. However, when considering the city’s cost of living, London may not always be the top choice for everyone. In contrast, cities like Reading and Birmingham follow closely, offering attractive inflation-beating salary growth with more affordable housing costs.
Reading, with an average salary of £37,237, and Birmingham, at £35,369, are becoming increasingly popular due to their vibrant atmosphere and favourable labour market conditions. These cities present a compelling blend of job availability and quality of life, making them attractive alternatives to the capital.
Moving towards the South West, cities like Bristol are also noteworthy. Bristol combines a dynamic job market with a relatively high average income, offering a diverse range of job vacancies and a lifestyle that appeals to many professionals.
Locations like Sunderland, Newcastle Upon Tyne, and Cardiff stand out in the context of the most affordable cities. These cities offer competitive salaries and rank well in terms of more affordable housing costs and overall living expenses. This balance is particularly appealing in an era where remote and hybrid working models allow greater flexibility in choosing a workplace location.
Furthermore, other UK cities like Coventry and Leeds also show strong potential. Coventry, for instance, with its recent salary growth and robust job market, is a city on the rise. Leeds, known for its youthful energy and strong local economic activity, continues to draw a skilled workforce.
When assessing the overall job scenario, it’s important to consider not just the city status and average earnings but also factors like the city’s cost of living and the local population’s general level of contentment. Cities like Canterbury and Lancaster score highly in life satisfaction and are becoming increasingly desirable for those valuing a balanced lifestyle.
In conclusion, when looking at the UK’s labour market conditions and job availability, it’s essential to weigh a variety of factors. From the average earnings in the best-paying cities to the more affordable living costs in other UK cities, and from the vibrant atmosphere of the South West to the strong local economic activity in places like Leeds, the UK presents a diverse array of options for professionals at all stages of their career.
Best City For Job Opportunities And Highest Average Salary FAQs
Here we answer your frequently asked questions on employment opportunities, healthy work-life balance, and the average salaries by UK city.
WHICH CITY IN THE UK HAS BEST JOB OPPORTUNITIES?
London is often considered the city with the best job opportunities in the UK. It is a major global financial centre and home to numerous multinational companies, leading industries, and a thriving startup scene. London offers a wide range of job prospects across various sectors, including finance, technology, creative industries, professional services, and more. However, competition for job hunters can be high, and the cost of living and average rental property costs in London is generally higher than in other cities in the UK.
WHERE IN THE UK IS IT EASIEST TO FIND A JOB?
Several cities in the UK have a promising job market, making it relatively easier to find employment. Manchester, Birmingham, and Edinburgh are among the cities known for their strong job markets and growing economies. These cities have diverse industries with job listings in finance, digital and creative sectors, manufacturing, and professional services, all contributing to a higher demand for skilled workers. Additionally, the cost of living and average rent in these cities is often more affordable compared to London.
WHICH CITY HAS THE BEST WORK-LIFE BALANCE IN UK?
Bristol is often recognised as one of the cities in the UK with a good work-life balance. It offers a vibrant cultural scene, beautiful countryside and green spaces nearby, and a thriving job market. Bristol is known for its friendly and relaxed atmosphere, which contributes to a healthier work-life balance and life satisfaction. National statistics show the city is a good location with many vibrant industries, including aerospace, engineering, creative media, and technology, providing job switch opportunities across various sectors.
WHICH JOBS ARE IN HIGH DEMAND IN UK?
Several occupations are currently in high demand in the UK. Some of those that rank highest include:
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Healthcare Professionals: Doctors, Nurses, Pharmacists, and other healthcare professionals are in high demand due to the ongoing need for medical services and an aging population.
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IT Professionals: The digital sector continues to grow rapidly, with existing and new businesses having high demand for Software Developers, Data Analysts, Cybersecurity Experts, and IT Project Managers.
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Engineering and Construction: With ongoing infrastructure projects and advancements in technology, Civil Engineers, Mechanical Engineers, and skilled construction workers are in high demand.
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Renewable Energy Specialists: The UK is focusing on sustainable energy, leading to increased need for Renewable Energy Specialists, including Wind Turbine Technicians and Solar Panel Installers.
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Business and Financial Services: The financial sector remains prominent, with demand for UK workers in finance, accounting, risk management, and consulting roles.
WHAT ARE THE TOP UK CITIES TO START A CAREER AFTER GRADUATION?
Several UK cities provide excellent opportunities for graduates to kickstart their careers. Here are a few top choices for university students to consider:
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London: As mentioned earlier, London offers a wide range of job opportunities across various sectors and industries. It has a vibrant and diverse professional environment, making it an attractive destination for graduates and young professionals.
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Manchester: With a thriving creative and digital scene, Manchester is an excellent city for graduates seeking opportunities in media, marketing, technology, and finance. It also has a lower cost of living compared to London.
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Birmingham: Birmingham has a strong business and professional services sector, along with a growing tech industry. The city offers a range of graduate schemes and career opportunities, making it an attractive choice for recent graduates.
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Edinburgh: Known for its historical charm and vibrant arts scene, Edinburgh also has a flourishing financial sector. It offers opportunities in finance, digital infrastructure, tourism, and creative industries, making it an appealing choice for any recent graduate.
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Leeds: Leeds is a thriving city with a strong job market and a growing digital sector. It provides opportunities in finance, marketing, tech, and professional services, along with a lower cost of living and housing affordability compared to some other major cities.
It's important to consider personal preferences, industry preferences, and other factors while choosing a top cities to start a career after graduation. Here are a few more cities worth considering:
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Bristol: Bristol has a vibrant creative and media scene, along with opportunities in aerospace, engineering, and technology sectors. It offers a balanced lifestyle, affordable housing, a strong sense of community, and a lower cost of living compared to London.
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Glasgow: Glasgow is known for its friendly atmosphere and thriving cultural scene with many cultural activities helping it rank higher on happiness scores. It has a diverse job market, particularly in finance, technology, creative industries, and healthcare. The city offers a lower cost of living and housing affordability compared to many other major UK cities.
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Newcastle: Newcastle has a growing digital and tech industry, as well as opportunities in finance, manufacturing, and healthcare. The city has a lower cost of living and a strong sense of community, making it an attractive choice for graduates.
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Cardiff: As the capital of Wales, Cardiff offers opportunities in finance, media, technology, and creative industries. It has a lower cost of living compared to many other major cities in England, Scotland, and Northern Ireland, and provides a high quality of life.
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Nottingham: Nottingham has a diverse economy with opportunities in finance, manufacturing, technology, and creative industries. The city offers a vibrant social scene, a strong student community, and affordable living costs.
Remember, these cities are just a starting point, and there are numerous other cities in the UK that can provide excellent career opportunities and high salaries. It's advisable to research specific industries, job markets, networking opportunities, and lifestyle factors to make an informed decision based on your career goals and personal preferences.
WHICH AREAS OF THE UK HAVE THE HIGHEST EMPLOYMENT RATE?
As of the latest Office for National Statistics (ONS) figures, the South East of the UK boasts the highest employment rate. For the three months ending July 2023, the employment rate in the South East reached an impressive 79.6%. This region is a hub of economic activity and ranks among the best cities for jobs, offering a diverse range of employment opportunities across various sectors. The high employment rate reflects the robust job market and the dynamic economic landscape of the South East.