With the UK job market as competitive as ever, professionals across the country seek clarity on the opportunities available to them so they can secure positions that allow them to have a secure income and a good quality of life.
To help, data experts at Best Apprenticeships have completed an in-depth analysis of the UK job market and have revealed the best and worst paid locations across the country, based on the number of job listings in each location with over £30,000 salaries (over the national average salary of £28,000).
The Best-Paid Locations in the UK Ranked:
| Rank | Location | Job Listings With £30k+ Salaries |
| 1 | London | 21761 |
| 2 | Hampshire | 4819 |
| 3 | Manchester | 4774 |
| 4 | Kent | 3867 |
| 5 | Surrey | 3646 |
| 6 | Berkshire | 3,636 |
| 7 | Essex | 3527 |
| 8 | Bristol | 3493 |
| 9 | Hertfordshire | 3034 |
| 10 | Cambridgeshire | 2921 |
While London unsurprisingly claims the top position, with its need for substantial salaries to offset the city’s high living costs, Hampshire emerges as a strong contender in second place. Home to popular south-east cities like Winchester and Portsmouth, the county boasts over 4.8k job listings with salaries exceeding £30,000, particularly in industries like defence and technology.
Manchester secures third place, serving as the northern base of high-paying opportunities, fueled by its dynamic creative and digital sectors. Meanwhile, both Kent and Surrey’s proximity to London, coupled with its robust job market and competitive salaries, renders them attractive destinations for ambitious professionals, landing them 4th and 5th place.
Berkshire secures 6th place with 3,636 job listings offering salaries exceeding £30,000. This location presents a compelling option for professionals seeking lucrative opportunities. Its strategic location in the southeast, close to London, and its diverse economy spanning multiple sectors contribute to its attractiveness for ambitious individuals.
Essex, with 3,527 job listings, and Bristol, with 3,493 job listings, secure 7th and 8th place and stand out as vibrant hubs for high-paying employment. Situated in the East and Southwest of England respectively, they offer diverse career prospects across industries such as finance, technology, and creative sectors.
Hertfordshire, with 3,034 job listings, and Cambridgeshire, with 2,921 job listings, take the final 9th and 10th spots. Their proximity to the capital, combined with distinctive regional identities and thriving economies, make them sought-after destinations for career-driven individuals looking for above-average salaries.
You can find Best Apprenticeship’s full analysis of the UK job market in 2024 on their website for further data and information.
Feature image credit to Henry Be.
