Manchester VS Liverpool

Manchester is the larger business hub with 98,153 active companies, compared to 43,636 in Liverpool. 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 Activities of other holding companies n.e.c. and Buying and selling of own real estate.

Key Figures

Manchester
Active98,153
Total116,352
2020s Growth72.2%
Oldest Co.1871
Liverpool
Active43,636
Total51,713
2020s Growth67.8%
Oldest Co.1864

Head-to-Head

Active Companies
98,153
43,636
Total Registered
116,352
51,713
Dissolved Companies
18,199
8,077
2020s Growth Rate
722%
678%
ManchesterLiverpool

Company Formation by Decade

Manchester
Pre-1990
2,361
1990s
2,106
2000s
8,176
2010s
32,829
2020s
70,880
Liverpool
Pre-1990
1,042
1990s
971
2000s
4,412
2010s
15,695
2020s
29,593

Frequently Asked Questions

Which city has more registered companies, Manchester or Liverpool?

Manchester has 98,153 active companies compared to 43,636 in Liverpool — 54,517 more.

Which is growing faster, Manchester or Liverpool?

Manchester has a higher 2020s company formation rate (72.2%) compared to Liverpool (67.8%).

What industries do Manchester and Liverpool have in common?

Both cities share these top industries: Activities of other holding companies n.e.c., Buying and selling of own real estate, 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. Manchester is uniquely strong in Dormant Company and Information technology consultancy activities, while Liverpool stands out in Development of building projects and Hairdressing and other beauty treatment.