Exeter named top business hotspot

Exeter has been named one of the best places in England to start a business in 2025, according to a new study by business energy experts Utility Bidder.

The city ranks eighth on the nationwide list, scoring 8.53 out of 10 thanks to strong results across a range of business-friendly indicators - including a high five-year business survival rate (51.7%) and a GDP per capita of over £52,000.

Exeter also benefits from a solid employment rate of 77.6%, fast median download speeds of 80.5 Mbps, and more than 1,000 office properties per 100,000 people, making it a magnet for digital and service-based enterprises.

The report, which analysed data across local authorities in England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland, highlights Exeter’s appeal as a growing entrepreneurial hub with excellent infrastructure, a skilled workforce, and access to transport links.

Top of the English rankings was Guildford, with a score of 9.14. West Oxfordshire and Stratford-on-Avon tied for second place, while cities such as South Cambridgeshire and Winchester also made the top ten.

Outside of England, Edinburgh took top spot in Scotland, Cardiff led the way in Wales, and Lisburn and Castlereagh came first in Northern Ireland.

The report also found:

• Wokingham is England’s most energy-efficient region, with 70% of commercial buildings rated A+, A or B.

• Wyre Forest has the highest employment rate in the country at 88.8%.

• West Devon boasts the strongest 5-year business survival rate (59.0%).

• Manchester has the most office properties per capita, while High Peak leads the way for train stations.