Manchester’s economic landscape continues to evolve rapidly, establishing itself as one of the UK’s most dynamic employment hubs. As we progress through 2025, the Manchester job market reveals a city that’s not only recovering from recent economic challenges but actively outpacing national growth rates. With projections showing Manchester will achieve average annual economic growth of 2.1% between 2025 and 2028, significantly faster than the UK’s national rate of 1.6%, the city presents compelling opportunities for both job seekers and employers.
Greater Manchester, with its population of over 2.8 million, has undergone a significant transformation from its industrial past to become a vibrant centre for tech, finance, and creative industries. This shift has led to a diverse range of employment opportunities, where traditional sectors sit alongside new digital economies, offering unprecedented career paths across various industries. Recognising these trends is vital for anyone seeking to thrive in Manchester’s competitive yet fulfilling job market.
Overview of the Manchester Job Market in 2025
Employment statistics in Greater Manchester show a resilient and growing picture, despite ongoing challenges. The city’s employment rate is currently 71.4% for those aged 16 to 64, up from 67.8% last year. However, recent data reveals some fluctuations, with the employment rate dropping to 65.0% between October 2023 and September 2024, highlighting the market’s continued volatility.
Manchester is expected to record the joint-fastest rate of employment growth of all UK towns and cities from 2025 to 2028, with job numbers forecast to grow at an average annual rate of 1.3%. By 2028, Manchester’s local economy is projected to be more than £2.9 billion larger than in 2024 when measured by gross value added, driven substantially by the city’s buoyant technology sector and growth in professional services.
Manchester’s unemployment rate shows a mixed picture. Although some sources report rates of 5.1%, more recent data suggest it has dropped to 6.5% for the October 2023 to September 2024 period. This rate is still higher than the national average of 3.8%, but it has the second-highest growth potential among England’s core cities. The claimant count is 6.5% for those aged 16 to 64, representing people actively claiming unemployment-related benefits.
Getting people into work remains a challenge in Greater Manchester, where 23.8% of the working-age population is classified as economically inactive, above the national average of 21.4%. The main reasons include students (34%), those caring for family or home (26%), and people with long-term illnesses (20.9%). This creates both challenges and opportunities for targeted job support programmes.
Top Industries and Roles Hiring in Manchester
Technology and Digital Sector
Manchester’s career landscape remains largely defined by the tech sector, with the city cementing its position as Europe’s fastest-growing digital and tech hub. Recent developments include PwC’s plans to create 1,000 tech-focused jobs in Manchester over the next three years, with many roles available to start immediately. These positions will be based in Spinningfields, the city’s business district, and will focus on developing new technology products for both internal use and client services.
American streaming giant Roku has also announced plans to open a massive technical and engineering hub in the city, further cementing Manchester’s reputation as a global technology destination. The digital, creative and media sector remains vibrant and resilient, encompassing industries from cyber security and e-commerce to gaming, programming, and media production.
Key technology roles in demand include:
- Software developers and engineers
- Cyber security specialists
- Digital marketers
- Data analysts and scientists
- AI and machine learning engineers
- Cloud computing specialists
See Roku’s live vacancies here!
Healthcare and Life Sciences
Healthcare and life sciences is one of the fastest-growing sectors, with a projected need for 1.2 million health and social care associate professionals and 1 million healthcare workers across the UK by 2035. Manchester’s strong science community, which brings together researchers, businesses, universities, and healthcare providers, has drawn significant investment. Major companies like AstraZeneca and Johnson & Johnson have a strong presence in the city, looking for professionals with regulatory expertise and innovation skills. The wider North-West region is home to over 7,600 people working in R&D sites, with a 28% rise in these facilities.
Manufacturing and Advanced Engineering
Manchester’s manufacturing sector has undergone significant evolution and this has been embraced by local education institutions; embracing the Fourth Industrial Revolution through artificial intelligence, automation, and robotics. The sector now prioritises the integration of digital technologies and the development of sustainable, low-carbon products. With government targets to construct 75,000 homes over the next five years, the construction and civil engineering sectors are experiencing unprecedented growth, resulting in an estimated 11,000 new jobs.
Financial and Professional Services
The financial and professional services sector employs approximately 280,000 individuals in Greater Manchester, representing around 20% of the local economy. Growth projections suggest continued expansion through 2030, with notable strength in legal and accounting, insurance, and business services.
Tips for Job Seekers in Manchester
Navigating the Manchester job market requires strategic planning and local market knowledge. Here are essential tips for maximising your success:
Leverage Manchester’s University Network: With over 100,000 students enrolled across five universities producing around 36,000 graduates annually, tap into university career services and alumni networks even after graduation.
Focus on High-Growth Sectors: Prioritise applications in technology, healthcare, digital marketing, and advanced manufacturing where demand consistently exceeds supply.
Develop Digital Skills: Regardless of your sector, ensure you have foundational digital skills as they’re increasingly essential across all industries.
Utilise Local Job Platforms: Platforms like jobsinmcr.co.uk specifically showcase Manchester-based opportunities, offering better visibility than generic national sites.
Network Within Industry Clusters: Manchester’s concentrated industry clusters create opportunities for sector-specific networking and career development.
Consider Apprenticeships and Alternative Pathways: The Greater Manchester Baccalaureate (MBacc) offers genuine alternatives to university routes, particularly in growing technical sectors.
Prepare for Competitive Markets: With one in 21 working-age residents officially unemployed, ensure your CV and interview skills are exceptional.
Explore Hybrid Working Options: Many Manchester employers now offer flexible working arrangements, with 45% of content design roles offering hybrid options.
Target January and February Applications: Research indicates these months see the highest hiring activity across most sectors.
How Employers Can Attract Talent in Manchester
As a major hub for talent, Manchester is a net importer of professionals from London, second only to New York City. This creates both opportunities and challenges for employers. To attract top talent, employers should consider several strategic approaches.
Manchester’s excellent quality of life, recognised as the Best UK City to Live by The Economist in 2019, makes it a compelling destination for talent. Employers should highlight the city’s cultural offerings, affordable cost of living compared to London, and superior work-life balance when recruiting.
With 60% of North West graduates choosing to stay in the area for work, and 46% specifically in Manchester, employers should build stronger relationships with local universities and colleges. Developing graduate programmes, offering placements, and engaging with careers services can create sustainable talent pipelines.
Given the skills shortages in key areas like tech, health, education, and the creative sector, employers should consider comprehensive training and development programmes. The Growing Talent Greater Manchester initiative provides opportunities for employers to collaborate on skills development and engage with young people aged 10-18.
Flexible working arrangements have become increasingly important, with many professionals prioritising work-life balance over purely financial considerations. Offering hybrid working options, comprehensive benefits packages, and career development opportunities can help employers stand out in competitive markets.
Local Resources and Support for Job Seekers
Manchester offers extensive support networks for job seekers across different areas and demographics. The Manchester Employment Partnership coordinates citywide responses to labour market challenges and opportunities.
Area-Specific Support:
- North Manchester: Yes Manchester provides job finding assistance, training, and volunteering opportunities
- Central and South Manchester: One Manchester offers skills development, work experience, volunteering, and self-employment support
- Wythenshawe: Real Opportunities specialises in local employment support
Manchester Work Clubs operate throughout the city, providing friendly, voluntary support from local people and organisations. These clubs offer flexible participation without the pressure of commitment.
Sector-Specific Initiatives: The city has delivered over 150 sector-based work academies to Manchester residents, with notable success in airport security, health and social care, and construction sectors. Over 48 Manchester businesses have received bespoke recruitment support from the City Council.
Skills Development: GMACS provides sector-specific guidance and training opportunities across Greater Manchester’s key industries. The organisation offers comprehensive information about career paths in digital, creative and media, manufacturing and technology, and healthcare sectors.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What are the fastest-growing job sectors in Manchester for 2025?
Technology and digital services lead growth, followed by healthcare and life sciences, advanced manufacturing, and financial services. Computer programming is especially set to soar in the coming years.
How does Manchester’s unemployment rate compare to the national average?
Manchester’s unemployment rate of 6.5% is higher than the national average of 3.8%, but the city shows strong growth potential with projected employment increases of 1.3% annually through 2028.
What salary can I expect in Manchester compared to London?
While Manchester salaries may be lower than London, the cost of living is significantly more affordable. Workers in Greater Manchester earn an average weekly wage of £601, approximately £30 below the English average, but money goes much further due to lower housing and living costs.
Are there good opportunities for graduates in Manchester?
Yes, Manchester produces around 36,000 graduates annually from its five universities, with 46% choosing to work in the city after graduation. The concentration of universities and businesses creates excellent networking and career development opportunities.
How can I find Manchester-specific job opportunities?
Utilise local job platforms like jobsinmcr.co.uk, which focuses exclusively on Manchester-based positions. Additionally, engage with local recruiters, university career services, and sector-specific organisations like GMACS.
What support is available for unemployed people in Manchester?
Comprehensive support includes area-specific organisations (Yes Manchester, One Manchester, Real Opportunities), Manchester Work Clubs, sector-based work academies, and Manchester City Council’s employment partnership initiatives.
The Manchester labour market analysis for 2025 reveals a city positioned for sustained growth and opportunity. With projected economic expansion outpacing national averages, employment growth expected to lead the UK, and continued investment from major technology companies, Manchester offers compelling prospects for career development across multiple sectors.
While challenges remain—including unemployment rates above national averages and economic inactivity in certain areas—the city’s diverse economy, world-class universities, and strategic initiatives to address skills gaps create a dynamic environment for professional growth. The combination of affordable living costs, excellent quality of life, and expanding job opportunities makes Manchester an increasingly attractive destination for talent from across the UK and internationally.
For job seekers, the key to success lies in understanding sector-specific opportunities, developing relevant skills, and leveraging Manchester’s extensive support networks. Employers who recognise Manchester’s unique advantages and invest in local talent development will find themselves well-positioned to grow and thrive in this vibrant market.
Ready to explore Manchester’s job opportunities? Visit jobsinmcr.co.uk to discover the latest vacancies from top Manchester employers. Whether you’re seeking your next career move or looking to hire exceptional talent, our platform connects you directly with Manchester’s most exciting opportunities. Start your Manchester career journey today—because the best opportunities don’t wait.
