Southampton is the larger business hub with 23,069 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 Development of building projects.
Southampton has 23,069 active companies compared to 11,030 in Oxford — 12,039 more.
Southampton has a higher 2020s company formation rate (58.2%) compared to Oxford (52.7%).
Both cities share these top industries: Buying and selling of own real estate, Development of building projects, Information technology consultancy activities, Management consultancy activities other than financial management, Other business support service activities n.e.c.. Southampton is uniquely strong in Freight transport by road and Other service activities n.e.c., while Oxford stands out in Business and domestic software development and Dormant Company.