Cambridge’s tech Boom or Oxford’s innovation edge – The ultimate investment showdown

The popularity of Oxford and Cambridge has been going on for as long as the universities have been around. These famous cities have a long history of being academic powerhouses, but now they are known for being major centres of creativity and culture. Cambridge is acing it in the tech and biotech game, while Oxford is leading the way in research and innovation. Let’s check out what makes these two cities unique and why they’re popular with investors, professionals, and residents as they shape the future.

Cambridge – The Hub of innovation

Cambridge is known for its association with academia and advanced technology. The city is known for the prestigious University of Cambridge and has become a top player in science, medicine, and innovation on a global scale. Cambridge’s reputation as a top spot for science and tech professionals has been solidified by the emergence of ‘Silicon Fen’ as Europe’s version of Silicon Valley.

Key highlights

The University of Cambridge has an unbeatable academic reputation covering 17,000 hectares. Its colleges and departments are scattered throughout the city, mixing old-fashioned charm with new technology.

• A booming tech centre– where big names like Apple, Arm, AstraZeneca, and GSK call home, and places like Cambridge Biomedical Campus are pushing the economy forward.
• Renting in Cambridge is really taking off! Prices have jumped 9.3% in the last year, and experts think landlords could be making a 5.5% profit by 2025 ². It’s a great time to be a landlord in Cambridge!
• Cambridge University significantly impacts the UK economy, bringing in £30 billion and creating 86,000 jobs². It’s no wonder that the city is a hot spot for investors.
• Cambridge is the Unicorn Capital of Europe, with 23 companies hitting unicorn status by 2023, showing they are top players in tech innovation.
• With great transport connections, it only takes 48 minutes to get to London King’s Cross by train, and there are also easy links to Stansted Airport and Birmingham.

Living in Cambridge is unlike anywhere else – with the beautiful River Cam, 29 golf courses, a great cycling network, and lively street markets, it’s the perfect place for a work-life balance.

Introducing The Icon – A landmark development in Eddington

The Icon is an important part of the University of Cambridge’s £1 billion North West Cambridge project in Eddington. Only 2.4 miles from the old city centre, this new neighbourhood redefines modern living with eco-friendly homes and world-class amenities. The building has around 106 apartments, from small studios to big three-bedroom units, and it is expected to be finished by June 2025.

The development is designed to be eco-friendly and energy-efficient, with a goal of cutting carbon emissions by 85%, and is leading the way for sustainable living. People living here will have access to safe underground parking, advanced garbage disposal systems, and green roofs that promote biodiversity in the city. Located near top colleges and busy business areas, The Icon is a great spot for professionals and students who want to live in a lively and well-connected area.

Oxford – The city of dreaming spires and innovation

Oxford’s impact goes way beyond just its super famous university. As a hub for tech, biosciences, and research, this city is always at the top for science and innovation. Oxford has a great vibe with a thriving economy, beautiful parks, and tons of cool stuff to do.

Key highlights

• The University of Oxford is the best in the world, and it’s been the top university for eight years in a row!
• A top player in innovation, it is ranked as the third most hopping science and innovation spot in the world, just behind Cambridge and San Francisco.
• Being a top tech startup Hub, it makes the most tech unicorn creators in Europe.
• Oxford North – This £700 million mixed-use district makes Oxford a cutting-edge innovation hub with 1 million sq., featuring lots of lab and workspace, 480 new homes, and top-notch amenities.
• Oxford’s property market is booming! Prices have increased by 103% in the past 10 years, making it a great place to invest for long-term growth.
• There’s a high demand for rentals right now – you can make over 5% in rental yields, and they’re expected to go up by 23% from 2024-2028 .
• Excellent Lifestyle & Connectivity Only 14 minutes from downtown, with access to over 400 shops, 116 restaurants, and top cultural attractions.

Oxford isn’t just a city – it’s a gateway to the beautiful Cotswolds, perfect for anyone who loves the great outdoors and stunning views.

Canalside Quarter – Oxford’s most exciting new address

Canalside Quarter is about to be the exciting new place to live in Oxford, adding fresh vibes to the city’s urban scene. This visionary project in Oxford North combines history with modern design, making a cool and eco-friendly neighbourhood. Phase 1 of the project is already happening, with 150,000 square feet. and is expected to be finished by Q2 2025. Located in a prime location near top companies, research centres, and top-notch schools, Canalside Quarter provides unbeatable convenience and connectivity.

Created for a more eco-friendly tomorrow, the project has all-electric heating and cooling to ensure super energy efficiency. Residents can also take advantage of the large green areas, like the 2.25-acre Fallaize Park, which promotes sustainability. As part of the big makeover happening in Oxford, the Canalside Quarter offers a great place to live and a smart investment for the future.

Oxford or Cambridge – Which one Wins?

Oxford and Cambridge are now considerable players worldwide in education, research, and economic success. Whether you’re into Cambridge’s tech scene and extraordinary startups or Oxford’s old-school vibe and top-notch innovation hubs, both cities have great investment opportunities and an excellent lifestyle.

If you want to make a smart investment in these popular cities, don’t miss the chance to check out The Icon and Canalside Quarter development showcase at the Benham and Reeves property event on 29-30 March. These new builds have everything – modern luxury, eco-friendly features, and super convenience, all with a great backdrop of the hills!

So, which city do you prefer, Oxford or Cambridge? Either way, you’re putting your money towards the future. Contact us to know more.

Source –

1 – Carter Jonas Report, March 2024
2 – www.carterjonas.co.uk/residential/market-report/cambridge/winter-22-23
3 – The Economic And Social Impact of University of Cambridge report
4 – eddington-cambridge.co.uk, 2024; architectprojects.co.uk, 2018; North West Cambridge Planning Statement March 2012
5 – oxfordnorth.com, 2024
6 – https://www.ons.gov.uk/visualisations/housingpriceslocal/E07000178/?utm_source=chatgpt.com
7 – Dataloft Rental Market Analytics 2022/2023