What’s it Like to Live and Do Business in Manchester? The Top Benefits

12th May 2023

The UK undeniably has a host of stunning, beautiful cities with a great history and culture, interesting and delicious food, and thrilling entertainment and activities. But amongst all these cities, Manchester stands out for many reasons – one of which is its diversity and innovation. In fact, many business startups have already chosen Manchester as their home, as the city is particularly attractive to entrepreneurs just venturing out into business. But Manchester has established itself in many ways, particularly when it comes to its infrastructure, its technologies, and so much more. But what is it really like to live and do business in Manchester? If you have a business startup and are wondering what the city has to offer, wonder no more – here are its top benefits.

Living in the city: what it’s like

Manchester is a city that is completely alive – and buzzing with activity. It is home to more than 2.7 million individuals, making it the UK’s third-largest metropolis. Aside from this, the city has excellent public transport links, with an established network of trams, buses, and trains –  which make getting around convenient and easy.

What about the cost of living, you ask? Well, the cost of living in Manchester is much lower than that of London, and this makes it an appealing destination for those looking to save funds and resources. In fact, the city has a diverse range of affordable housing, from modern, well-appointed flats to historic and traditional Victorian terraces. The city centre is also home to many bars, restaurants, and shops, making it a great place to live for those who enjoy a lively social scene, especially at night!

Doing business in the city: what it’s like

Anyone who has been to Manchester will tell you it has a thriving business community centred round its digital and creative sectors. The city is home to world-class universities (including the Manchester Metropolitan University and the University of Manchester), which have produced their own successful startup founders. But Manchester has become a startup hub mainly because of its strong business environment. It has a range of programmes and initiatives designed to help new businesses, such as the Northern Powerhouse Investment Fund.

The city also has a strong infrastructure to support businesses. Manchester Airport is one of the UK’s busiest airports, and the city is also home to MediaCityUK, a state-of-the-art media hub that is home to the BBC and other media-related companies. In addition, it is very easy to find your own office in the city, and it is home to various serviced offices and business support centres. To find out more, click here.

  • A strong community and opportunities for networking

Manchester has a strong sense of community – one of the reasons why it is such a great place to live and do business. Various networking events bring together investors, entrepreneurs, and experts in different industries.

  • The lifestyle and culture

The city’s rich cultural heritage is evident in its many art galleries, museums, and historical landmarks. It might interest you to know that the city has a thriving music scene, with famous bands and musicians (such as Oasis) originating from there. The city is known for its excellent shopping, high street and designer shops, and an interesting bar and restaurant scene.