Brighton will head into 2026 in a stronger position than this time last year to create jobs and attract foreign direct investment (FDI), helping to lift the wider south coast region, according to the latest study from law firm Irwin Mitchell and the Centre for Economics and Business Research (Cebr).
The Investment Attractiveness Index compares 48 UK cities and offers a comprehensive view of where investment opportunities are emerging and where challenges persist.
The report shows Brighton has recorded an overall score of 38.3, ranking 14th nationally. The city’s performance is underpinned by strong skills (7th) and solid infrastructure (22nd), supporting its competitiveness and talent base. While growth potential currently sits at 32nd, reflecting softer new enterprise formation and employment projections, Brighton remains well positioned to convert its strengths into investment and jobs in 2026.
Bryan Bletso, Head of International at Irwin Mitchell, said:
“Brighton’s deep talent pool continues to be its calling card, particularly for creative, digital and tech‑led investment. With the right focus on turning skills into investable projects, from innovation partnerships to scale‑up support, Brighton can translate strong international interest into new enterprises and high-quality jobs in the year ahead.”
Elsewhere on the south coast, Southampton ranks 19th overall, supported by top‑ranked digital connectivity and improving skills; Portsmouth places 24th with strong infrastructure and online connectivity; and Bournemouth is 36th, with comparatively stronger growth potential. The report concludes that together, these results point to a region with deep talent and excellent connectivity, but new enterprise formation and targeted infrastructure investment will be critical to unlock the next wave of FDI.
The report also sets out policy recommendations for the UK as a whole, including deepening workforce skills and research collaboration, spreading London’s advantages across the UK through infrastructure and devolved investment tools, and prioritising policy stability and strong trade relationships to maintain the UK’s global competitiveness.