Manchester Targets 36,000 Homes by 2032 as Jobs Growth Hits 19.7%
Updated
Updated · secretmanchester.com · Jun 27
Manchester Targets 36,000 Homes by 2032 as Jobs Growth Hits 19.7%
2 articles · Updated · secretmanchester.com · Jun 27
Summary
Manchester plans to build 36,000 homes by 2032, including at least 10,000 affordable units, to support rapid expansion and ease housing pressure.
19.7% job growth over the past decade has outpaced the UK’s 13.9% average, driven by a knowledge economy that now supports 244,000 jobs—the second-highest total after London.
Nearly 1,000 affordable homes delivered in the past 12 months gave Manchester its best year yet for that segment and cut the housing waiting list for the first time since the pandemic.
75% employment and a 30% rise in operating businesses since 2015 have reinforced the city’s growth strategy, while projects such as the planned Sandhills Metrolink stop aim to link residents to new jobs.
The push reflects Manchester’s broader effort to turn strong business growth into wider gains in living standards, housing access and transport connectivity across the city.
As thousands of new homes rise, who can truly afford to live in the new Manchester?
Is Manchester's celebrated growth model actually creating a tale of two cities?
Manchester’s 2026 Housing Progress: Delivering 10,000 Affordable Homes Amid Economic Growth and Equity Challenges
Overview
As of early 2026, Manchester stands out as a leading UK city, showing strong economic growth and real progress in housing. The city’s established economic strength is highlighted by its efforts to boost business capital and expand its graduate workforce, aiming to close the productivity gap. At the same time, Manchester is making significant strides in delivering affordable homes, with a notable share now available at social rent levels. These achievements reflect Manchester’s commitment to both economic vitality and meeting the housing needs of its growing population, setting a positive example for other cities.