Comparing UK Cities for International Doctors

Relocating to a new country can be a daunting task, especially for international doctors who are navigating new healthcare systems, cultures, and environments. Choosing the right city in the UK to practice medicine is crucial for professional growth and personal well-being. This guide compares several UK cities, highlighting key factors such as job opportunities, major hospitals, availability of halal food, the percentage of non-UK residents, and more. Let's explore what each city has to offer for foreign doctors.

1. London
Basic Information:

• Population: Approximately 9 million.
• Climate: Mild with moderate rainfall throughout the year.
• Cultural Attractions: Museums, theaters, historical sites, and diverse dining options.

Major Hospitals: Guy's and St Thomas' NHS Foundation Trust, King's College Hospital, and The Royal London Hospital.

Availability of Halal Food: Extensive, with numerous halal restaurants and markets throughout the city.

Percentage of Non-UK People: Approximately 37% of London's population is born outside the UK, providing a culturally diverse environment.

Living in London:

• Cost of Living: High, particularly in terms of housing.
• Public Transport: Extensive network including the Tube, buses, and trains.
• Lifestyle: Fast-paced with a wide range of activities and amenities.

2. Manchester
Basic Information:

• Population: Around 2.7 million in the Greater Manchester area.
• Climate: Mild with higher than average rainfall.
• Cultural Attractions: Music scene, sports, and a vibrant nightlife.

Major Hospitals: Manchester Royal Infirmary, Salford Royal NHS Foundation Trust, and Royal Manchester Children's Hospital.

Availability of Halal Food: High, with a variety of halal dining options and grocery stores.

Percentage of Non-UK People: Around 16%, showcasing a significant international community.

Living in Manchester:

• Cost of Living: More affordable compared to London.
• Public Transport: Good network of buses and trams.
• Lifestyle: Dynamic with a strong community feel.

3. Birmingham
Basic Information:

• Population: Approximately 1.1 million.
• Climate: Mild with moderate rainfall.
• Cultural Attractions: Diverse food scene, cultural festivals, and shopping centers.

Major Hospitals: Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham, City Hospital, and Heartlands Hospital.

Availability of Halal Food: Very good, with a multitude of halal restaurants reflecting the city’s large Muslim population.

Percentage of Non-UK People: Approximately 22%, with a vibrant and diverse international community.

Living in Birmingham:

• Cost of Living: Moderate.
• Public Transport: Comprehensive network including buses, trams, and trains.
• Lifestyle: Family-friendly with a variety of amenities.

4. Edinburgh
Basic Information:

• Population: Around 500,000.
• Climate: Cooler with more pronounced seasons.
• Cultural Attractions: Historic sites, festivals (including the Edinburgh Fringe Festival), and natural beauty.

Major Hospitals: Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh, Western General Hospital, and St. John’s Hospital.

Availability of Halal Food: Good, especially in the central and university areas.

Percentage of Non-UK People: Roughly 15.9%, with a growing community of international residents and students.

Living in Edinburgh:

• Cost of Living: Moderate to high.
• Public Transport: Efficient network including buses and trams.
• Lifestyle: Historic charm with modern amenities and a high quality of life.

5. Glasgow
Basic Information:

• Population: Around 600,000.
• Climate: Similar to Edinburgh, with cool, wet weather.
• Cultural Attractions: Vibrant music and arts scene, museums, and festivals.

Major Hospitals: Queen Elizabeth University Hospital, Glasgow Royal Infirmary, and The Royal Hospital for Children.

Availability of Halal Food: Good, with numerous options available across the city.

Percentage of Non-UK People: Around 12%, with a well-established community of foreigners.

Living in Glasgow:

• Cost of Living: More affordable than many other major UK cities.
• Public Transport: Comprehensive system including buses, trains, and an underground metro.
• Lifestyle: Friendly atmosphere with a rich cultural heritage.

6. Leeds
Basic Information:

• Population: Approximately 800,000.
• Climate: Similar to other northern cities, with moderate rainfall.
• Cultural Attractions: Dynamic arts scene, sports, and shopping.

Major Hospitals: St James's University Hospital, Leeds General Infirmary, and Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust.

Availability of Halal Food: Good, with a variety of options in and around the city.

Percentage of Non-UK People: About 10.5%, reflecting a modest but growing international presence.

Living in Leeds:

• Cost of Living: Reasonable.
• Public Transport: Well-connected network of buses and trains.
• Lifestyle: Dynamic city life with family-friendly amenities.

7. Bristol
Basic Information:

• Population: Around 700,000.
• Climate: Mild and wetter due to its coastal location.
• Cultural Attractions: Known for its green spaces, festivals, and historic sites.

Major Hospitals: Bristol Royal Infirmary, Southmead Hospital, and Bristol Royal Hospital for Children.

Availability of Halal Food: Moderate, with a range of halal food options mainly in central areas.

Percentage of Non-UK People: Approximately 15%, with a diverse mix of cultures.

Living in Bristol:

• Cost of Living: Moderate to high.
• Public Transport: Efficient network including buses, trains, and cycling paths.
• Lifestyle: Eco-friendly with a vibrant cultural scene.

8. Liverpool
Basic Information:

• Population: Around 500,000.
• Climate: Mild with moderate rainfall.
• Cultural Attractions: Famous for its musical heritage (The Beatles), waterfront, and cultural institutions.

Major Hospitals: The Royal Liverpool University Hospital, Aintree University Hospital, and Liverpool Women's NHS Foundation Trust.

Availability of Halal Food: Very good, with a variety of halal restaurants reflecting the city's diverse demographic.

Percentage of Non-UK People: Around 11.3%, with a notable international student population.

Living in Liverpool:

• Cost of Living: Affordable compared to other major cities.
• Public Transport: Well-developed network including buses and trains.
• Lifestyle: Vibrant cultural scene with friendly locals.

9. Newcastle
Basic Information:

• Population: Around 300,000.
• Climate: Cool and wet, typical of northern England.
• Cultural Attractions: Known for its nightlife, cultural festivals, and historic architecture.

Major Hospitals: Freeman Hospital, Royal Victoria Infirmary, and Newcastle upon Tyne Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust.

Availability of Halal Food: Moderate, with some well-reviewed halal eateries and markets.

Percentage of Non-UK People: Nearly 8%, including a significant number of international students.

Living in Newcastle:

• Cost of Living: More affordable than many other major UK cities.
• Public Transport: Comprehensive public transport system, including buses and the Tyne and Wear Metro.
• Lifestyle: Friendly atmosphere with a vibrant social scene.

10. Belfast
Basic Information:

• Population: Around 340,000.
• Climate: Mild with relatively high rainfall.
• Cultural Attractions: Rich history, cultural festivals, and scenic surroundings.

Major Hospitals: Royal Victoria Hospital, Belfast City Hospital, and Mater Infirmorum Hospital.

Availability of Halal Food: Limited but growing, with a few halal establishments primarily in university and city center areas.

Percentage of Non-UK People: Around 6%, though it is increasing as the city becomes more culturally diverse.

Living in Belfast:

• Cost of Living: Generally lower than other UK cities.
• Public Transport: Good network of buses and trains.
• Lifestyle: Close-knit community with a rich cultural heritage.

11. Sheffield
Basic Information:

• Population: Approximately 570,000.
• Climate: Similar to other northern cities, with moderate rainfall.
• Cultural Attractions: Known for its green spaces, cultural festivals, and music scene.

Major Hospitals: Sheffield Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Northern General Hospital, and The Royal Hallamshire Hospital.

Availability of Halal Food: Good, with a variety of halal butchers and restaurants especially in the university areas.

Percentage of Non-UK People: Approximately 14%, buoyed by a large student population.

Living in Sheffield:

• Cost of Living: Affordable.
• Public Transport: Well-connected network of buses and trams.
• Lifestyle: renowned for its green spaces, vibrant cultural festivals, music scene, and a strong sense of community, making it an attractive city for both living and working.