This factsheet shows how Barnsley compares to the five most similar European cities in size and industrial structure. These are: Debrecen (Hungary), Hamm (Germany), Le Havre (France), Pécs (Hungary) and Troyes (France).

Comparing cities in this way helps us to understand more about how well UK cities are competing on an international scale because it groups cities with similar industrial structures, rather than on their resulting economic performance. The factsheet also compares the relative strengths and weaknesses of Barnsley to its European counterparts on variables such as skills, employment and productivity.

City group characteristics

Compared to its European comparators, Barnsley is mid ranking for productivity. But it comes at the bottom for both business stock and innovation (patents). It also has a large share of low skilled residents.

Population

Industrial structure

Key

• Manufacturing, mining and utilities 2011
• Business services 2011
• Public services 2011
• Other private services 2011
• Other sectors 2011

Overall economic performance

Compared to its European neighbours, Barnsley ranks in the middle for productivity, however comes at the bottom for both business stock and innovation (patents). It also has a significantly high proportion of low skilled people.