Living And Working In Belfast

Belfast is the capital city of Northern Ireland. Belfast is the largest city in Northern Ireland and is 115 square kilometres and the population is currently around 634,500 residents.

Northern Ireland is surrounded by both the Atlantic Ocean and the Irish Sea so you can expect the weather to be unpredictable and wet at times but generally enjoys a steady maritime climate. Set on the shores of Belfast Lough, Belfast is the gateway to the Causeway Coastal Route where you can experience the land of legend and fairy tales at its best.

It is just a short drive from some fantastic beaches where you can explore incredibly diverse stretches of golden sand, sampling nature at its finest. It is little wonder that the popular TV series Game of Thrones chose to film in Belfast and the surrounding areas.

Belfast was and still is a port city. In the past the predominant industries were the manufacturing of the world famous and highly sought after beautiful Irish linen, ropemaking and also shipbuilding. It is here that the ill-fated Titanic was built over three years at the Harland and Wolff shipyard. The shipyard is still in operation but now focuses on repairs, conversion and offshore construction.

The economy has now moved on and has been replaced by a strong expansion in all aspects of technology. Software developments, I.T, Digital as well as manufacturing and engineering are now strongly placed in Belfast. With much growth within Cyber Security, it is now becoming one of the leading roles in the sector. There is marked emphasis not only on the service and public sectors but tourism also.

Northern Ireland's economy is continuing to expand at a healthy rate since the reopening of hospitality and non essential shops in the wake of the pandemic which is both positive and promising for the future.

Belfast International Airport is the largest airport within Northern Ireland and the smaller George Best Belfast City Airport proves popular also. Railways are operated by Northern Ireland Railway and the network of roads make for uncomplicated travel. It takes less than one and a half hours to fly the approximate 520 km from London to Belfast.

With 3000 acres of parks and forests, timeworn castles  and mountains so high that you may see the Scottish coastline on a clear day, it is easy to understand the attraction.

There are a wide variety of bars, coffee shops and restaurants to cater for all tastes and whether you prefer your shopping experience to consist of high street names or independent shops, you will find them here.The Queens Quarter in Belfast is a lively area, popular with students which differs from the Cathedral Quarter which has a more cultural feel to it.

The standard of education is excellent ~ Northern Ireland has some of the highest achieving pupils in the world in mathematics and there are several good universities to choose from.

House prices are affordable with an average three bedroom home selling from £100,000 upwards. According to recent data in 2021, Belfast is now 40% cheaper than in London to live with the ‘average’ salary being £28,000 per annum. Of course, some jobs pay less and others pay more, depending on experience and qualifications.

You will never have a reason to feel lonely in Belfast as the people here are genuinely warm, kind hearted and good natured.

Looking for a Career in Belfast? Why not attend our upcoming Belfast Careers Fair, taking place at Ten Square Hotel on Friday 19th November. Secure your free candidate ticket here.