Economy and labour market

"Economies of scale"

Here are a few facts regarding the local economy and labour market:

• 57,700 are currently in employment, which is 70.9% of the local population
• The average gross weekly wage is £711.90 per week. The National Average is £766.60
• 54% of the population have achieved NVQ3 or above
• Manufacturing accounts for 13.5% of local employment while the national average is 7.3%
• Tourism related industries employ 11.5% of local people while the national average is 7.8%
• Unemployment stands at 3.7% - below the national average of 4.5%

* Figures correct as of May 2026.