The Accounting Landscape in Hull

Considering a move to Hull for your accountancy career? You're looking at a city with an exceptionally low cost of living, a rich maritime heritage, and an economy undergoing a dynamic transformation. Hull offers a fantastic blend of professional opportunity and quality, affordable lifestyle that often surprises people.

 

The Accounting Landscape in Hull

The accountancy job market in Hull is robust, catering to a diverse range of sectors. While the city's traditional strengths lie in maritime trade, logistics, and manufacturing, there are growing opportunities in:

• Renewable Energy (Offshore Wind): Hull is a UK hub for the offshore wind industry (e.g., Siemens Gamesa), creating demand for finance professionals to support large-scale industrial projects.

• Chemicals and Pharmaceuticals: Major players like Reckitt Benckiser have a significant presence, requiring corporate and internal audit expertise.

• Public Sector: Roles within the local council and public services, such as Principal Finance Officer positions, are frequently available.

• Practice: Numerous small to mid-sized firms like Dutton Moore offer roles from Semi-Senior to Audit/Accounts Senior, often supporting study for qualifications like ACA or ACCA. Many firms are embracing flexible and hybrid work models.

The local professional network is often described as supportive, with strong connections between local firms and businesses.

 

Life in the City: Culture and History

 

Hull, officially Kingston upon Hull, is a city with a distinctive character and a proud history.

• City Vibe: Following its tenure as UK City of Culture in 2017, the city has seen significant regeneration, particularly around the city centre and the rejuvenated Humber Street area. It offers a balance of modern amenities, cultural venues (like the Hull Truck Theatre and multiple museums), and green spaces like Queen's Gardens.

• Historical Points: Hull's history is deeply tied to the sea.

  • Maritime History: It was founded as a port by the monks of Meaux Abbey and later purchased by King Edward I in 1293. It became a major centre for wool export, fishing, and whaling.

  • The English Civil War: A key moment was in 1642 when Sir John Hotham refused King Charles I entry to the town, an act widely considered the spark for the Civil War. You can visit Beverley Gate in the Old Town where this famous stand was made.

  • William Wilberforce: The city is the birthplace of William Wilberforce, a leading figure in the abolition of the slave trade. Wilberforce House is a museum dedicated to his life.

• Affordability: One of Hull's biggest selling points is its affordability. The cost of living is significantly lower than in many other major UK cities like Leeds, Manchester, or York.

 

Housing and Cost of Living

Hull is one of the most affordable cities in the UK, making your accountant's salary go further.

Property Type (August 2025 Provisional)	Average Price in Kingston upon Hull
Terraced properties	£122,000
Semi-detached properties	£157,000
Flats/Maisonettes	£79,000
Detached properties	£243,000
Average House Price	£133,000

The average monthly rent is around £647, well below the regional and national average.

 

Recommended Residential Areas:

• Cottingham: A highly desirable village on the outskirts, known for its pleasant suburban feel, good schools, and independent shops. Excellent for families.

• Anlaby: Another sought-after suburb offering quiet streets, a strong community feel, and a good mix of property types.

• Hull Old Town/City Centre (HU1): Ideal for single professionals or couples looking for flats and a vibrant, walkable urban lifestyle close to work and nightlife.

• Newland: A lively, energetic neighbourhood popular with students and young professionals due to its proximity to the University of Hull, with local cafes and independent businesses.

 

Education and Travel Links

Education System

The city and the wider East Riding area offer a full range of state schools. The University of Hull is a respected institution and a major employer in the region, offering a range of undergraduate and postgraduate courses, including finance and accounting. This provides a steady supply of new talent and opportunities for collaboration or continued professional development.

 

Travel and Transport

• Roads: Hull is connected to the national motorway network via the M62. The city's geography is defined by the Humber Estuary, crossed by the iconic Humber Bridge, which links Hull with North Lincolnshire.

• Rail: Hull has good rail links, with direct services to London King's Cross, Leeds, and Manchester. Future proposals for improved rail connections are designed to make it a more effective part of the wider "Northern Powerhouse" economic area.

• Local Transport: The local bus network (primarily East Yorkshire Motor Services) is comprehensive. Hull is also known for its local phone company, KCOM, which has invested heavily to make the city one of the UK's first "full-fibre" digital cities, offering high-speed broadband.

• Port & Air: The Port of Hull remains a crucial international seaport, handling significant cargo and offering daily ferry services to Europe (Rotterdam and Zeebrugge). The nearest major international airport is Humberside Airport (HUY), with larger links available from Leeds Bradford (LBA) or Doncaster Sheffield (DSA).

 

Hull's Role in the UK Economy

Hull is strategically significant as the Northern Powerhouse's Gateway to Europe. Its economy is centred on its role as a major port and trading hub, dominating the Humber Estuary.

Key economic drivers include:

• Logistics and Trade: The port remains vital for shipping, import, and export to Northern Europe.

• Manufacturing: The city has a strong base in manufacturing and processing, including food, chemicals, and pharmaceuticals.

• Green Economy: It is a core location in the UK's offshore wind sector, driving substantial investment and creating high-skill jobs in engineering and related finance/operations roles.

• Digital Infrastructure: Hull was a trailblazer in delivering city-wide full-fibre broadband, helping to support growing tech and remote-working sectors.

In summary, working as an accountant in Hull means balancing a career in a city focused on manufacturing, logistics, and renewable energy with a lifestyle that is exceptionally affordable, rich in history, and increasingly vibrant.