Glasgow dwarfs Oxford in scale with 67,891 active companies versus 11,030 — a 6.2x difference. Despite the size gap, both cities play distinct roles in the UK economy. Oxford may be smaller, but its industry mix and growth patterns offer unique advantages. Both cities share strength in Buying and selling of own real estate and Information technology consultancy activities.
Glasgow has 67,891 active companies compared to 11,030 in Oxford — 56,861 more.
Glasgow has a higher 2020s company formation rate (63.1%) compared to Oxford (52.7%).
Both cities share these top industries: Buying and selling of own real estate, Information technology consultancy activities, Management consultancy activities other than financial management, Other business support service activities n.e.c., Other letting and operating of own or leased real estate. Glasgow is uniquely strong in Activities of other holding companies n.e.c. and Hairdressing and other beauty treatment, while Oxford stands out in Business and domestic software development and Development of building projects.