Tech jobs in Cambridge offer exiting opportunities in a city renowned for its innovation and history. With it’s thriving tech sector, competitive salaries, and rich lifestyle, Cambridge is an ideal location for professionals. Continue reading to discover what makes it a great place to live and work!
Housing in Cambridge
It is important to weigh up your options of living arrangements depending on personal preferences and circumstances. Buying and renting are both possible when getting a tech job in Cambridge.
Renting in Cambridge: the average monthly rent is approximately £1,500. However, renting a house can be more expensive, averaging closer to £1,650-£1,800. Alternatively, you could save money by renting a room, starting at £750-£800, or a flat with prices starting around £1,250.
Buying in Cambridge: For people looking to buy, deposits usually range between 5% and 20% depending on the type of mortgage. The average price of a house in Cambridge has now reached £497,000. This reflects the city’s growing demand and ranking it as one of the higher priced areas in the UK.
UK visa requirements for working in Cambridge
As a British national, you already have the right to work in the UK. Since Brexit, EU nationals can still work in the UK but now need a visa. In most cases, employers can sponsor and apply for a work visa once you have secured the job offer. You can learn more about the updated UK visa process post-Brexit on the government website.
The cost of living in Cambridge
Renting a furnished 85² apartment in Cambridge typically costs between £1,700 and £2,000 per month, depending on the location. Utility bills add an average of £180 per month. Although places like London are more expensive, Cambridge is still one of the most priciest cities in the UK. You can expect to pay around £15 for lunch in the business district.£1.10 for a loaf of bread and about £14 for a good bottle of red wine. When it comes to everyday expenses, dining out can be expensive. A three-course meal for two at a mid range restaurant will cost roughly £70. If you’re after some quick food, a combination meal at Mcdonald’s averages around £8. The cost of basic groceries is also high. A litre of milk is priced at £1.50, while a domestic beer costs around £5.75 according to Numbeo.
Living in Cambridge can be expensive, as it has become one of the UK’s most expensive cities. Compared to London, the cost of living is slightly more affordable. However, many people still find it difficult to keep up with the high costs. This is especially apparent when wages do not align with housing and living expenses. This is why it is more important than ever to use Hexwired to secure a tech job with a competitive salary. For example, renting a one bedroom flat in the city centre is around £1,750 per month on Rightmove. The same flat on the outskirts costs about £1,250. If you’re looking to buy, the average price per square metre in the city centre is £7,000. Compared to £4,100 in the suburbs.
It is crucial to secure a competitive salary to have a comfortable lifestyle in Cambridge.
Salaries in Cambridge
Salaries for tech jobs in Cambridge are generally lower than in London, but the difference isn’t as large as one might think when you factor in the cost of living. For instance, a software engineer in Cambridge might earn between £45,000 and £55,000 annually, while the same job in London could make a salary of £55,000 or £70,000 or more, depending on experience and the specific industry. While Cambridge is about 12% – 15% less expensive than London overall, the cost of living in Cambridge remains high, especially when it comes to housing. The lower salaries in Cambridge mean that the cost of living adjustments may still not be enough for some people to afford a comfortable lifestyle without a well paying job. However, Cambridge offers a more balanced work-life environment and remains a desirable location for many professionals, especially those in tech jobs, as it provides access to world class academic institutions and a thriving innovation sector.
Despite the higher costs, Cambridge continues to be an attractive option for individuals looking to live and work in a city that fosters both personal and professional growth.
Commuting and public transport in and around Cambridge
Cambridge is a compact city, making it easy to navigate. It’s renowned for being one of the most walkable cities in the UK. Cycling is a popular mode of transport, and the city offers an extensive cycling network. There are even bike pumps at various locations to keep cyclists going smoothly throughout their day. However, parking in the centre of Cambridge can be challenging, so driving is often discouraged. Many of the people living in the suburbs can take advantage of the park-and-ride facilities. This is because they offer convenient bus services running throughout the day and into the evening.
For public transport, Cambridge has a well-connected bus network and a mainline train station with regular services to London and other cities across the UK. However, Cambridge does not have an underground or tram system.
The education system in Cambridge
The British law makes it compulsory for children to begin formal education the term after their fifth birthday. Yet many parents choose to enrol their children at age four when the academic year starts in September. Cambridge follows a primary and secondary school system. Children transition to secondary school at 11, continuing until they complete their GCSEs at 16. Post-GCSEs, options for further education include sixth forms and colleges, catering to students aged 16 to 18. The city also hosts an array of prestigious private day and boarding schools, such as The Perse School, St. Mary’s School, and The Stephen Perse Foundation. Snobe highlights these schools for their academic excellence, diverse extracurricular programs, and well-rounded student development.
Cambridge is renowned for its higher education institutions. The University of Cambridge, one of the world’s oldest and most prestigious universities, which focuses on innovation, research, and global collaboration. Additionally, Anglia Ruskin University contributes to the city’s vibrant academic environment, offering a range of career focused programs.
The Tech sector in Cambridge
Around 22,000 people are employed in the Tech field in Cambridge. This is a number that continues to grow due to expanding developments in the tech sector. Well established fields like big data and cyber security are thriving in the city, while other areas are supported by initiatives such as Cambridge Digital. These organisations promote innovation and help emerging tech sectors flourish.
Cambridge is also working toward becoming a smart city. Innovation, research, and collaboration between citizens and stakeholders are all encouraged. A major development contributing to this goal is the Cambridge Science Park, which spans 400,000 square feet and houses offices, laboratories, production spaces, and a tech community hub. This site aims to boost the tech ecosystem. It provides a collaborative space for businesses and researchers to drive forward new innovations.
Life in Cambridge outside of work
Cambridge, which is renowned for its prestigious university and stunning architecture, blends rich history with a thriving modern lifestyle. Famous for its iconic spires, the city offers a perfect mix of academic heritage and contemporary culture. Tourists can take in panoramic views of the city from the top of Great St. Mary’s Church or explore the scenic surroundings of the River Cam, where punt boats glide along the waters. The city’s parks, including the beautiful Jesus Green and Parker’s Piece, are ideal for outdoor activities and seasonal events. Cambridge is home to several historic landmarks, including the Fitzwilliam Museum which boasts a vast collection of art and antiquities, and the historic King’s College Chapel, where you can explore centuries of architectural brilliance. Founded in 1441, the University of Cambridge is a known for both academic excellence and innovation, playing a central role in the city’s cultural and intellectual landscape. Cambridge also offers a wealth of independent shops and cafes, including the Market Square where visitors can enjoy local food, artisanal goods, and more.
Overall, Cambridge seamlessly integrates its rich academic history with modern opportunities, making it an attractive place for both work and leisure. The city is a magnet for professionals in fields like technology and academia, offering an exceptional environment for personal and career growth. Whether you’re drawn by its innovation driven sector, picturesque settings of world-renowned education institutions, Cambridge continues to thrive as a dynamic and inspiring place to live and work.
Visit our website today to see the jobs we have available, for your chance to secure your tech job in Cambridge.
About Hexwired Technology Recruitment
Hexwired recruitment provide a tailored and cost-effective tech recruitment services for our clients, helping employers to hire skilled professionals in software engineering that are suited to the business needs quickly. Our technical consultants’ knowledge and understanding of the sector, alongside their experience in the tech industry is one of the reasons we excel at finding you the right candidates in software.
We provide both contract and permanent solutions to the technology sector, covering areas such as Embedded Software, Electronics (FPGA, Digital Design, RF, IC Design), Software Test, C++ software engineer, Python, Golang, Machine Learning and Data Science, Technical Sales and Project management, and more. Need help hiring permanent/contract talent or looking for a new job? Contact us today.
