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Known as the northern powerhouse of England, Manchester is popular for its diverse culture, world-class football, less than ideal weather, legendary music scene and energetic nightlife.
The city is attractive to people looking for a day trip, a night out, a holiday and even a job. With employment on the rise, outside of London, Manchester is becoming one of the biggest employment hubs to work in with the likes of Media City attracting big names such as the BBC and Manchester Science Park home to over 120 innovative businesses.
So if you’re left wondering what it’s like to live in the second biggest city in England, then read on for our guide to living and working in Manchester:
Living in Manchester
Working in Manchester
Living in Manchester
Culture
Whether you’re into art galleries or visiting old warehouses that have been converted into coffee shops, Manchester is the place to be for culture and adventure. You cannot say the word Manchester without thinking football so one thing that should be on the top of your list is a visit to the stadiums (red, blue or even both!) and the National Football Museum.
There’s also a number of excellent theatres including the famous Lowry Theatre and art gallery which is definitely worth a visit.
If you’re looking for something educational, you’ll be spoilt for choice when picking from Manchester’s best museums which include the Imperial War Museum North, the Museum of Science and Industry, and the People’s History Museum.
Transport
Thankfully Manchester is a relatively compact city with excellent transport links. The tram network is currently under construction following the approved expansion of the line which will dramatically improve the infrastructure of the city even more. Along with an excellent road network, Manchester has an excellent system of cycle lanes around the city so if you’re feeling (or wanting to get) fit, you can take to the wheels. There are two mainline railway stations in the centre and a world-class airport just a 15-minute drive from the city
Accommodation
When moving to a new area people tend to rent first so they can make sure it is the right place for them. With the expansion of the city, there are new apartments available to rent being built in almost every direction. If you’re relocating with your family you may want to consider a move to the suburbs of the city where you will find plenty of houses and flats to buy or rent. However, families are now more than ever choosing to live in cities due to the number of high-quality apartments being built and improved services out there to support family life.
As Manchester is home to a large number of students and professionals who have moved to the area to pursue their careers, flat sharing is very common in the city. There are a number of estate agents that specialise in putting like-minded individuals in contact to be able to secure a home together and therefore split rent and bills to make it more affordable for both parties.
Thingsto do in Manchester
Manchester is home to a vast retail scene both in the city centre and surrounding areas. The likes of Harrods, Selfridges and many other well-established brands are all grouped together around the city’s shopping centre, the Arndale. If you are after something a little different, the collection of small independent stores based in the Northern Quarter such as Affleck’s Palace is the place to be – a vintage lover’s paradise!
Manchester is home to the Trafford Centre, one of the biggest and most popular shopping centres in the country where other activities such as Lego Land, the Sea Life Centre and Chill Factore are based.
If you are more of an outdoors person, you can venture out into Manchester’s suburbs and visit one of the cities vast parks such as Haigh Hall and Heaton Park. The Peak District is less than an hour’s drive away from Manchester so it’s great for a day out in the countryside.
Working in Manchester
The Manchester city region offers a high-quality workforce of 7.2 million people within an hour’s commute of the city centre. It’s an attractive location for people from surrounding areas to work due to increased progression opportunities and pay.
Manchester’skey industries
Manchester has a strong history in the manufacturing sector which has played a big part in developing the city in the past. However, since its expansion, other specialisms such as ICT, Construction, Financial, Creative and Digital industries have become increasingly influential.
Today, Manchester has been recognised by the UK government as one of the six “science cities” across the country. It is fast becoming a key city for not only research and development but also for innovation and academic excellence.
Topemployers in Manchester
With four universities on its doorstep, Manchester is home to some of the best young talent in the country. Having previously ranked the third best student city in the UK, it’s no surprise why a number of top employers have set up camp in this vibrant part of the country.
Some employers based in Manchester to note are Costain, the Manchester Airport Group, the BBC, the Co-Operative Group, Kellogg’s, Thomas Cook, Adidas and JD Sports.
Does this sound like the place you want to be? Why not check out our latest jobs in Manchester and begin the process of making the big move.
