It's no secret that London is a competitive city to work in. While the job market is vast and varied, the sheer number of qualified people moving to London looking for work can mean it can be hard to get your foot in the door.
Which is why a new survey has found that London is the eighth best city in the UK to start your career - and Manchester is number one.
The study by Ideal Flatmate questioned 1,000 participants and found the best areas in the UK for young professionals to begin their career, taking into account why these areas are so great and the average salary in each city.
Ideal Flatmate spokesperson Tom Gatzen said in a statement: “It’s fantastic to see Manchester voted as the best place for young professionals in the UK. With a thriving economy in the north of England and cheaper living rates, it’s no wonder people are look to invest their time and money in these areas.”
Out of the 222 boroughs in the Index, below are the 10 that offer the most promising opportunities for young professionals.
1. Manchester City
Average salary: £26,399
Why it's great: a growing technology culture, local airport and the best nightlife in the UK, Manchester is the epitome of 'Northern Charm'.
2. Dore & Totley, Sheffield
Average salary: £24,288
Why it's great: the 'steel city' is renowned for its great nightlife, music scene and friendly locals.
3. Clifton, Bristol
Average salary: £27,848
Why it's great: Clifton is a stunning Georgian area with a country village feel in the heart of the city. With a number of cosy cafes, higher-than-average salaries and one of the closest suburbs to Bristol's centre, Clifton has earned its ranking as number three on the list.
4. Balmoral, Belfast
Average salary: £24,288
Why it's great: just 10 minutes from the city, Balmoral is a bustling area, thriving in culture and pubs.
5. Fulwood, Sheffield
Average salary: £24,288
Why it's great: Sheffield makes its second appearance on the list, with Fulwood being commended for its safe neighbourhood and parks.
6. Ecclesall, Sheffield
Average salary: £24,288
Why it's great: we should all pack up and move to Sheffield, eh? With three spots in the top 10 places for young professionals in the UK, Sheffield round off their trifecta with Ecclesall, a borough with a number of lively eateries, bars and a healthy mix of student accommodation and family homes.
7. South Jesmond, Newcastle
Average salary: £25,007
Why it's great: with their infamous nightlife, shopping and entertainment, Newcastle is a great place for any young career starter. In South Jesmond, you'll find reasonable rent and a bevy of other like-minded youths.
8. Kensington and Chelsea, London
Average salary: £35,025
Why it's great: according to the research, the most attractive place in London to live as a young professional is in the Kensington and Chelsea area, well-known for its affluence and sky-high rent. But if you can afford it, expect lush townhouses and a number of royal parks nearby.
9. Edgbaston, Birmingham
Average salary: £25,755
Why it's great: while this is another affluent area, it's close to the city centre and is a thriving neighbourhood - with Birmingham being a hotspot for new jobs and businesses.
10. Hillhead, Glasgow
Average salary: £26,183
Why it's great: the heart of Glasgow's trendy West End, Hillhead has a number of boutique and eateries, and is close to the city centre.
