The economic landscape of the Southeast is one of the most dynamic in the UK, with Essex playing a key role.
While London remains the powerhouse of employment opportunities, Essex and the other Home Counties like Kent, Surrey, Hertfordshire, Berkshire, and Buckinghamshire offer an increasingly attractive alternative for both employers and jobseekers.
But how does Essex really compare when it comes to employment?
1. Employment rate and economic activity
Essex consistently records an employment rate above the national average, with strong participation in sectors such as construction, logistics, education, and healthcare. As of the latest available data, Essex's employment rate hovers around 76–78%, similar to many of its neighbouring counties. By comparison:
London has a slightly lower employment rate (~74%) but a much higher concentration of jobs per resident due to its commuter draw.
Surrey and Hertfordshire often post the highest employment rates in the region (~79–81%), boosted by a mix of high-income professions and tech-led industries.
Kent and Buckinghamshire typically align closely with Essex in both participation and economic structure.
2. Job types and industry spread
While London dominates in finance, media, tech, and professional services, Essex’s economy is more diverse and practical:
Logistics and Transport: With its proximity to London and major ports like Tilbury and Harwich, Essex is a logistics hub.
Construction and Skilled Trades: The demand for housing and infrastructure around Greater London has fed a steady pipeline of construction-related roles.
Health and Social Care: A growing ageing population has increased demand in this sector across Essex.
In contrast, counties like Surrey and Berkshire are more tech- and pharmaceutical-heavy (thanks to the M3/M4 corridor), while Kent has a significant agricultural and tourism-based employment sector.
3. Commuting patterns and hybrid work
Historically, Essex has been seen as a commuter belt county, with thousands traveling daily into London via rail links like the Greater Anglia network. However, post-COVID changes in working culture have made hybrid and remote roles more accessible, allowing Essex residents to take advantage of London salaries while enjoying a lower cost of living.
This shift has somewhat levelled the playing field. High-value roles that once required living or working in London can now be done from Chelmsford, Colchester, or Southend.
4. Wages and cost of living
While salaries in Essex are generally lower than in London, the cost of living is significantly more manageable. This gives Essex an advantage in real terms, particularly for families and younger professionals seeking a better work-life balance.
Other counties like Surrey and Berkshire offer higher salaries on average but also come with high housing costs, narrowing the gap in net benefit.
5. Business growth and local initiatives
Essex benefits from a strong entrepreneurial spirit. Local authorities and LEPs (Local Enterprise Partnerships) have been investing in business parks, innovation centres, and regeneration zones, particularly around Harlow (Life Sciences), Basildon (manufacturing and engineering), and Chelmsford (tech and creative industries).
Compared to some other Home Counties, Essex is still building its reputation as a business destination, but the signs are positive.
Essex on the up
While London remains the epicentre of UK employment, Essex is carving out its own identity - grounded in diversity, accessibility, and sustainable growth. Compared to the more affluent but expensive neighbouring counties, Essex strikes a balance that appeals to many: solid employment, better affordability, and growing opportunity.
As remote work and regional investment continue to reshape the landscape, Essex may well become one of the most strategic places to live and work in the Southeast.
