Edinburgh is the larger business hub with 56,473 active companies, compared to 23,069 in Southampton. 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 Information technology consultancy activities.
Edinburgh has 56,473 active companies compared to 23,069 in Southampton — 33,404 more.
Southampton has a higher 2020s company formation rate (52.7%) compared to Edinburgh (37.7%).
Both cities share these top industries: Buying and selling of own real estate, Information technology consultancy activities, 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. Edinburgh is uniquely strong in Business and domestic software development and Dormant Company, while Southampton stands out in Development of building projects and Freight transport by road.