Manchester VS Liverpool

Manchester is the larger business hub with 98,826 active companies, compared to 43,661 in Liverpool. 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 Activities of other holding companies n.e.c. and Buying and selling of own real estate.

Key Figures

Manchester
Active98,826
Total127,806
2020s Growth64.4%
Oldest Co.1871
Liverpool
Active43,661
Total55,776
2020s Growth60.3%
Oldest Co.1864

Head-to-Head

Active Companies
98,826
43,661
Total Registered
127,806
55,776
Dissolved Companies
11,156
4,540
2020s Growth Rate
644%
603%
ManchesterLiverpool

Company Formation by Decade

Manchester
Pre-1990
2,404
1990s
2,125
2000s
8,239
2010s
33,043
2020s
80,056
Liverpool
Pre-1990
1,077
1990s
989
2000s
4,437
2010s
15,632
2020s
32,863

Frequently Asked Questions

Which city has more registered companies, Manchester or Liverpool?

Manchester has 98,826 active companies compared to 43,661 in Liverpool — 55,165 more.

Which is growing faster, Manchester or Liverpool?

Manchester has a higher 2020s company formation rate (64.4%) compared to Liverpool (60.3%).

What industries do Manchester and Liverpool have in common?

Both cities share these top industries: Activities of other holding companies n.e.c., Buying and selling of own real estate, 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. Manchester is uniquely strong in Dormant Company and Non-specialised wholesale trade, while Liverpool stands out in Development of building projects and Other.