Bristol VS Oxford

Bristol is the larger business hub with 54,569 active companies, compared to 10,960 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 Business and domestic software development and Buying and selling of own real estate.

Key Figures

Bristol
Active54,569
Total64,037
2020s Growth48.6%
Oldest Co.1871
Oxford
Active10,960
Total12,991
2020s Growth48.4%
Oldest Co.1866

Head-to-Head

Active Companies
54,569
10,960
Total Registered
64,037
12,991
Dissolved Companies
4,108
935
2020s Growth Rate
486%
484%
BristolOxford

Company Formation by Decade

Bristol
Pre-1990
2,558
1990s
2,159
2000s
7,241
2010s
19,970
2020s
31,353
Oxford
Pre-1990
458
1990s
481
2000s
1,492
2010s
4,047
2020s
6,366

Frequently Asked Questions

Which city has more registered companies, Bristol or Oxford?

Bristol has 54,569 active companies compared to 10,960 in Oxford — 43,609 more.

Which is growing faster, Bristol or Oxford?

Bristol has a higher 2020s company formation rate (48.6%) compared to Oxford (48.4%).

What industries do Bristol and Oxford have in common?

Both cities share these top industries: Business and domestic software development, Buying and selling of own real estate, Development of building projects, Dormant Company, Information technology consultancy activities. Bristol is uniquely strong in Activities of other holding companies n.e.c., while Oxford stands out in Retail sale via mail order houses or via Internet.