Who works hardest in the UK? Portsmouth among top areas

Not all UK cities are created equal when it comes to getting things done. While some cities are thriving with strong pay, busy job markets, and booming businesses, others are falling behind. Productivity isn’t just about how many hours people work, it’s influenced by a range of factors, from the types of industries a city has and how innovative its businesses are, to practical things like commute times and access to fast, reliable internet.

A new study by Hype Presentations analysed a range of economic and lifestyle metrics across major UK cities to identify where productivity is strongest. The research looked at indicators including GVA per hour worked, GDP per capita, median annual earnings, employment and job growth rates, business start-ups, commute times and broadband speeds to build an overall productivity score for each location.

Portsmouth came in 13th with a total productivity score of 44.51. The city combines strong employment levels at 80.4% with a median salary of £30,962, providing residents with steady work and reasonable pay. Job growth is modest at 1.6%, reflecting a stable local economy and ongoing support for businesses.

Commutes are relatively short, averaging 16.2 minutes, and broadband speeds are strong at 215.08 MB/s, helping both workers and local companies stay efficient. Portsmouth’s productivity is driven by a mix of maritime industries, professional services, and public-sector employment, allowing people to get work done without facing major daily obstacles.

Behind Portsmouth, other cities continue to show a range of ways to maintain productivity. Chester and Leeds balance skilled workforces with strong local businesses, while Peterborough, Exeter, and Aberdeen combine decent pay, short commutes, and reliable infrastructure to support day-to-day work.

“Some cities just click when it comes to getting work done,” says James Robinson from Hype Presentations. “It’s not about working longer hours, it’s about having the right mix of jobs, skills, and support around you.”

He adds, “Things people notice day to day really matter. If your commute is too long or your internet is slow, it slows everything down. Small cities can be just as productive as big ones if the basics are right.”

“Of course, not every city has that,” Robinson continues. “Places with fewer high-value jobs or weaker infrastructure face challenges. Improving productivity there isn’t just numbers on a page – it’s about making work life smoother and giving people more chances to succeed.”

List of the UK’s most productive cities: