The Demos-PwC Good Growth for Cities Index 2024: A Comprehensive Overview

The Demos-PwC Good Growth for Cities Index is an annual report that evaluates the economic performance and overall well-being of the UK’s largest cities. In its 2024 edition, the index ranked cities based on the public’s assessment of twelve critical economic measures, providing a nuanced picture of urban prosperity across the nation. This year, the city in focus achieved an impressive eighth place, reflecting a strong performance across various indicators that matter most to residents.

Understanding the Index

The Good Growth for Cities Index ranks 51 of the UK’s largest cities, which typically includes those with populations of at least 350,000, as well as the London boroughs. The index is unique in that it prioritizes the public’s perspective on economic health, rather than relying solely on traditional economic metrics. The twelve measures assessed include:

• Jobs: Availability and quality of employment opportunities.
• Health: Access to healthcare and overall well-being.
• Income: Average earnings and economic stability.
• Safety: Crime rates and perceptions of safety in the community.
• Skills: Educational attainment and workforce readiness.
• Work-life balance: The equilibrium between professional and personal life.
• Housing: Affordability and availability of housing options.
• Travel-to-work times: Commute durations and their impact on quality of life.
• Income equality: The distribution of wealth within the community.
• High street shops: The vibrancy and diversity of local businesses.
• Environment: Sustainability and green spaces.
• Business start-ups: The entrepreneurial landscape and support for new ventures.

These measures collectively provide a holistic view of what makes a city a desirable place to live and work.

The Top Performers

In the 2024 index, Plymouth emerged as the top city, followed closely by Bristol in second place and Southampton in third. This ranking highlights the diverse strengths of these cities, from economic opportunities to quality of life. Plymouth’s rise to the top can be attributed to its robust job market and community-focused initiatives that prioritize health and well-being.

Bristol, known for its vibrant culture and innovative economy, has consistently ranked high in previous years, while Southampton’s strong performance reflects its strategic investments in infrastructure and community services. These cities exemplify how targeted efforts can lead to improved outcomes for residents.

Regional Insights: The East of England

The east of England showcased significant improvements in urban areas, with Ipswich and Cambridge making notable strides in the rankings, landing at 12th and 11th place, respectively. This trend indicates a growing recognition of the importance of regional development and the need for tailored strategies that address local challenges and opportunities.

The progress seen in these cities underscores the potential for economic growth when local governments, businesses, and communities collaborate effectively. As cities in the east continue to evolve, they may serve as models for other regions striving for similar advancements.

The Call for Action

Rachel Taylor, government and health industries leader at PwC, emphasized the urgent need for raising prosperity across the UK. She pointed out the growing inequalities in housing, jobs, and education, which are exacerbated by disparities in access to quality resources. Taylor’s insights highlight the importance of addressing these imbalances to foster economic growth that benefits all citizens.

She stated, “If we are serious about economic growth as a country, we need to provide people and places with the foundations on which they can fuel that growth—access to jobs, skills and education, and affordable homes.” This call to action serves as a reminder that sustainable growth requires a collaborative approach involving local and national governments, businesses, and the third sector.

Conclusion

The Demos-PwC Good Growth for Cities Index serves as a vital tool for understanding the economic landscape of the UK’s largest cities. By focusing on the public’s assessment of key measures, the index provides valuable insights into what makes a city thrive. As cities like Plymouth, Bristol, and Southampton lead the way, it is essential for all urban areas to learn from these successes and work towards creating inclusive environments that promote prosperity for all residents. The future of urban growth in the UK hinges on our ability to address inequalities and foster collaboration across sectors, ensuring that every community has the opportunity to flourish.