New research by QRFY has revealed that Lichfield has experienced the largest increase in wages across the UK over the past year. The study, based on data from the Office for National Statistics, shows a significant rise in hourly pay in several areas, highlighting a trend of wage growth outside major urban centres.
Lichfield, Staffordshire, topped the list with a 27.39% increase in hourly wages, climbing from £14.97 in 2022 to £19.07 in 2023. This surge marks the most substantial pay rise in the country, reflecting a notable shift in the regional pay landscape.
South Staffordshire followed with a 24.39% increase. The area’s average hourly wage rose from £14.84 to £18.46. Eastbourne in East Sussex took third place, with wages rising by 22.72%, from £16.77 to £20.58.
Watford, Hertfordshire, ranked fourth with a 22.55% increase. The average hourly pays here went up from £18.85 to £23.10. Kingston upon Thames in south-west London completed the top five, where wages increased by 20.54%, from £20.69 to £24.94.
The top ten list also includes Fareham, Wandsworth, Coventry, West Devon, and Havering, all showing significant wage growth over the year. For example, Fareham saw an 18.82% increase in hourly pay, and Wandsworth experienced a 17.92% rise.
Marc Porcar, CEO of QRFY, commented on the findings: “The variety of areas featuring in the top ten indicates that wage growth is not confined to major cities. This trend may lead workers to reconsider the high cost of living in urban areas, especially as regional wages rise and offer more competitive pay.”
The study underscores a shift towards higher wages in less densely populated areas, suggesting a growing balance between urban and regional pay rates.
| Rank | Local authority | 2022 hourly pay (gross) | 2023 hourly pay (gross) | Percentage change |
| 1 | Lichfield | £14.97 | £19.07 | 27.39% |
| 2 | South Staffordshire | £14.84 | £18.46 | 24.39% |
| 3 | Eastbourne | £16.77 | £20.58 | 22.72% |
| 4 | Watford | £18.85 | £23.10 | 22.55% |
| 5 | Kingston upon Thames | £20.69 | £24.94 | 20.54% |
| 6 | Fareham | £17.75 | £21.09 | 18.82% |
| 7 | Wandsworth | £19.87 | £23.43 | 17.92% |
| 8 | Coventry | £19.29 | £22.69 | 17.63% |
| 9 | West Devon | £14.87 | £17.48 | 17.55% |
| 10 | Havering | £20.02 | £23.51 | 17.43% |