Londoners are the 'fourth hardest workers' in the UK, recent study confirms

A new study by Hype Presentations analysed a range of economic and lifestyle metrics across major UK cities to identify where productivity is strongest. The research looked at indicators including GVA per hour worked, GDP per capita, median annual earnings, employment and job growth rates, business start-ups, commute times and broadband speeds to build an overall productivity score for each location.

London came in fourth with a total productivity score of 63.71. The city’s economy is huge, with a large number of new businesses being created every year. Median earnings are strong at £39,778, and around 76% of people are employed, keeping London competitive despite its size and complexity.

Commutes are longer than most of the other top-ranking cities, averaging 33 minutes, and while this can slow down day-to-day working life, London benefits from a strong mix of industries including finance, tech, and professional services. Broadband speeds of 132.19 MB/s also support efficient working and help businesses run smoothly.

Behind London, the rest of the top 10 shows that there is no single formula for being productive. Edinburgh takes first place thanks to strong value per hour worked and high GDP per person, Cambridge comes second with fast job growth and high wages, and Milton Keynes takes third with short commutes and strong local businesses.

The rest of the top 10 is mostly made up of smaller cities where people are working, earning well, and getting to work without too much hassle. St Albans stands out for high pay and employment levels, while Winchester and Southampton both combine steady job markets with decent wages. Brighton and Hove and Oxford continue to perform strongly thanks to skilled workers and knowledge-based industries, and Manchester rounds out the top 10 with its large workforce and busy start-up scene.

“Some cities just click when it comes to getting work done,” says James Robinson from Hype Presentations. “It’s not about working longer hours, it’s about having the right mix of jobs, skills, and support around you.”

He adds, “Things people notice day to day really matter. If your commute is too long or your internet is slow, it slows everything down. Small cities can be just as productive as big ones if the basics are right.”

“Of course, not every city has that,” Robinson continues. “Places with fewer high-value jobs or weaker infrastructure face challenges. Improving productivity there isn’t just numbers on a page – it’s about making work life smoother and giving people more chances to succeed.”

List of the UK’s most productive cities: