Bristol is the largest city in southwest England and the eight largest in the country overall, with a multi-ethnic population of about 470,000. The city has a lot to offer expat professionals settling here with the aspiration of developing their careers while maintaining a healthy work-life balance. The industries that thrive in Bristol's labour market are the creative industry (Bristol is the home of Banksy street artists and activists), food and drink innovation, aerospace and advanced engineering as well as tech. Among the city's many advantages is that it is pretty close - a 90-minute train ride - to London, as well as Cardiff in Wales. So, if you're looking for a more affordable and less crowded place than London to live and work, Bristol might be for you. Â
The economy of Bristol
Bristol has one of the most robust economies in England and is particularly very active in the cultural and educational sectors. The here in 2025 is 3.9%, which matches England's average and represents strong employment opportunities.
Bristol is home to one of the country's most important ports, a vital economic hub of regional and international maritime trade.
Key economic sectors in Bristol include:
- Cultural and creative industries;
- Technology and innovation;
- Aerospace and advanced engineering;
- Financial services;
- Food and drink innovation;
- Tourism and hospitality;
- Education (there are three universities, including the University of Bristol);
- Media, electronics, aviation and trade;
- Information and communication technology.
Tourism n Bristol continues to boom, not only because the city itself has a lot to offer for all types of travellers but also thanks to the neighbouring regions of Somerset and Gloucestershire. Many British and international tourists flock to Bristol all year round to enjoy the scenery, warm weather, architecture and cultural activities.
Bristol's biggest employers
Bristol's employment rate remains strong at around 76%, , representing 255,100 working-age residents. In fact, the employment rate is one of the highest among England's cities.
The city's economy has evolved from its historical base in sea trade and shipping to now boasting a thriving creative industry,Ìýtech job opportunities,Ìý²¹²Ô»åÌýinnovation in the aerospace sector.
Tech and creative industries
Strava (San Francisco-based global online community for athletes) has its European offices in Bristol.
Bristol Temple Quarter redevelopment project continues to focus on housing, ecological infrastructure, education and the modern workforce, targeting tech, digital and creative sectors with plans for over 22,000 new jobs.
Aerospace
Airbus, Europe's multinational aerospace corporation and the world's second-biggest aerospace company, maintains significant operations in Bristol.
Healthcare
The NHS is one of Bristol's most prominent employers, with around 42,000 people working in the sector.
Education
The University of Bristol continues as a key employer, offering competitive packages including:
- Relocation packages covering costs for staff who must relocate;
- Competitive salaries and staff discounts;
- Comprehensive pension schemes and training opportunities;
- Focus on employee well-being and work-life balance;
- Flexible working arrangements and family leave policies.
Financial services
Major banks and financial institutions, including Lloyds and AXA, maintain significant Bristol operations
Useful links:
Finding a job in Bristol
Qualified professionals holding valid visas continue to find employment across various sectors in Bristol. Strong English language skills remain essential, however, regardless of the job type—some positions require excellent written and spoken English, while others need good oral communication skills.
The key to landing a job in Bristol is to be proactive, searching online and directly contacting the companies you wish to work for. If you are a non-UK citizen, you must obtain a certificate of sponsorship.
You can carry out your job search before you even arrive in Bristol, but a local address will help you secure a job quickly.
Regularly check Íæż½ã½ã's jobs in England section, and don't hesitate to post your availability or discuss labour market topics in the England forum.
Useful links:
Why Bristol is a good place for work
What makes a real difference when budgeting your life in Bristol compared to London is the cost of accommodation, which remains significantly less in Bristol.
As per the (ONS), the average house price in Bristol was £352,000 in May 2025, with the average monthly rent for private accommodation being £1,753 in June 2025.
While they sound steep, the good news is that according to 2024 figures from the average salary in Bristol is actually higher than the UK average—£46,000 compared to £45,800. Admittedly, not a huge gap but professionals looking to move here will no doubt take comfort in knowing the average salary is comfortable compared to the rest of the country.
Moreover, living in Bristol will mean more time for yourself, leisure activities, and family moments since commuting in Bristol is faster and more accessible due to the city's size and population. Besides, Bristol has one prime centre and few hubs dotted around the city, like London.
Working and living in Bristol also means that you can enjoy the coast and countryside either on foot or through the many cycle trails during the weekends. Some of the natural highlights that are easily accessible from Bristol are the Cotswolds rolling hills, the coastlines of Cornwall and Devon and scenic Wales.
If you are looking for some hustle and bustle, Bristol is renowned for its culinary scene, bustling nightlife, independent shops and unique festivals such as the , and - Europe's largest street art and graffiti festival.
Good to know:
Cameron Balloons is a Bristol-based manufacturer of hot-air balloons. While riding in a hot air balloon, you can get an amazing view of the Clifton Suspension Bridge!
Useful links:
Everyday life in Bristol
Bristol has two train stations: Bristol Temple Meads railway station, serving the city centre, and Bristol Parkway on the South Wales Main Line in the northern suburbs of Bristol. Rural Somerset and South Gloucestershire are easily accessible, meaning that one can live there to enjoy a peaceful lifestyle and commute to work in busier Bristol.
On the weekends, you can even cycle to the historic city of Bath along the scenic . Swimming is an excellent stress reliever - in fact, Bristol has a publicly accessible lido worth visiting.
Bristol maintains its strong community feel, with residents actively volunteering their time and skills. If you wish to give back to the community, consider mental health charity.
Good to know:
32% of Bristol's population participates in cultural activities at least once a month in museums, theatres, festivals, music and events.
Useful links
We do our best to provide accurate and up to date information. However, if you have noticed any inaccuracies in this article, please let us know in the comments section below.
