Leicester VS Oxford

Leicester is the larger business hub with 42,383 active companies, compared to 11,030 in Oxford. While size differs, comparing their industry profiles, formation trends, and growth rates reveals what makes each city's business environment distinctive. Both cities share strength in Buying and selling of own real estate and Information technology consultancy activities.

Key Figures

Leicester
Active42,383
Total48,841
2020s Growth65.9%
Oldest Co.1885
Oxford
Active11,030
Total12,265
2020s Growth52.7%
Oldest Co.1866

Head-to-Head

Active Companies
42,383
11,030
Total Registered
48,841
12,265
Dissolved Companies
6,458
1,235
2020s Growth Rate
659%
527%
LeicesterOxford

Company Formation by Decade

Leicester
Pre-1990
903
1990s
983
2000s
3,791
2010s
15,235
2020s
27,929
Oxford
Pre-1990
453
1990s
475
2000s
1,488
2010s
4,041
2020s
5,808

Frequently Asked Questions

Which city has more registered companies, Leicester or Oxford?

Leicester has 42,383 active companies compared to 11,030 in Oxford — 31,353 more.

Which is growing faster, Leicester or Oxford?

Leicester has a higher 2020s company formation rate (65.9%) compared to Oxford (52.7%).

What industries do Leicester and Oxford have in common?

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. Leicester is uniquely strong in Activities of other holding companies n.e.c. and Freight transport by road, while Oxford stands out in Business and domestic software development and Development of building projects.