Reading VS Oxford

Reading is the larger business hub with 23,738 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

Reading
Active23,738
Total27,876
2020s Growth51.3%
Oldest Co.1865
Oxford
Active10,960
Total12,991
2020s Growth48.4%
Oldest Co.1866

Head-to-Head

Active Companies
23,738
10,960
Total Registered
27,876
12,991
Dissolved Companies
1,861
935
2020s Growth Rate
513%
484%
ReadingOxford

Company Formation by Decade

Reading
Pre-1990
702
1990s
952
2000s
2,719
2010s
8,793
2020s
14,375
Oxford
Pre-1990
458
1990s
481
2000s
1,492
2010s
4,047
2020s
6,366

Frequently Asked Questions

Which city has more registered companies, Reading or Oxford?

Reading has 23,738 active companies compared to 10,960 in Oxford — 12,778 more.

Which is growing faster, Reading or Oxford?

Reading has a higher 2020s company formation rate (51.3%) compared to Oxford (48.4%).

What industries do Reading and Oxford have in common?

Both cities share these top industries: Business and domestic software development, 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.. Reading is uniquely strong in Activities of other holding companies n.e.c. and Other information technology service activities, while Oxford stands out in Development of building projects and Dormant Company.