How much do Portsmouth workers earn? New study reveals how the city compares across the south east
A new study by professional CV builder CVMaker has revealed the stark differences in earnings across the South East.
The analysis of Office for National Statistics data shows that the median gross weekly earnings for full-time employees vary dramatically across the region, with workers in Reading topping the list.
Across England, the median weekly wage sits at £770.70, with the highest figure belonging to the City of London at £1,278.50.
Portsmouth findings
Workers in Portsmouth earn a median weekly wage of £763.50, placing the city 27th out of 58 local authorities across the south east. While Portsmouth sits just below England's national median weekly earnings of £770, it trails the region's top-paying area, Reading, by £190.90 per week. Compared with the country's highest-paying location, the City of London, where median weekly earnings reach £1,278.50, Portsmouth workers earn £515 less each week. Portsmouth has a strong mix of jobs across defence, maritime, healthcare and education, but workers still earn less than those in many of the South East's highest-paying areas.
Top five South East areas findings
Reading ranks as the highest-paying local authority in the South East, with median weekly earnings of £954.40. The Berkshire town has become one of the UK's leading technology and business centres, attracting major employers in software, telecommunications, finance and professional services. Workers in Reading earn nearly £191 more per week than those in Portsmouth.
Mole Valley takes second place with median weekly earnings of £946.40, just £8 behind Reading. Its earnings sit almost 24% above the national median. Runnymede ranks third with median weekly earnings of £904.30. Employees earn more than £140 per week above Portsmouth's median wage.
Wokingham places fourth, with workers earning a median £900.80 per week. The Berkshire authority has consistently ranked among England's strongest local economies, supported by major technology firms and highly skilled professional employment.
Guildford completes the top five with median weekly earnings of £876.80. The Surrey town combines a thriving business sector with technology, research and higher education employers, alongside strong commuter links into London. Workers in Guildford earn around £113 more per week than those in Portsmouth.
Nicky Klaasse, CEO at CVMaker, commented on the findings:
"These statistics show the disparities across the UK, with some of the highest-earning areas clustered around financial districts rather than traditionally wealthy residential neighbourhoods. The data highlights how dramatically location can impact earning potential.
"What's particularly interesting is seeing smaller local authorities ranking so highly. Some areas have undergone significant economic transformation in recent years, attracting high-paying industries and skilled professionals.
"For job seekers, understanding these regional variations can be valuable when considering where to focus their search. A role in the City or Canary Wharf might offer substantially higher earnings than the same position elsewhere in the UK."