Cambridge: The city where one in four holds a non-UK passport

A diverse population and growing international community shape modern Cambridge

PRAVASISAMWAD.COM

Known for its historic colleges and winding lanes, Cambridge is also home to a remarkably diverse population where 28% of residents hold a non-UK passport, compared to the England and Wales average of 10%, according to the 2021 Census. This makes it the most internationally diverse local authority outside London, reported bbc.com.

A city shaped by migration and innovation

The report quoted Barnali Ghosh, 51, who arrived in Cambridge from India as a student 25 years ago and was captivated by the city. “Despite initial feelings of isolation, she found her place through Indian cultural events, where the community gathers to celebrate festivals, share meals, and build friendships,” the BBC report said.

India ranks as the second most common country of birth for Cambridge residents, with 4,000 people identifying as Indian-born in the 2021 Census, nearly double the figure from a decade earlier. Barnali, who stayed after completing her doctorate, attributes the city’s appeal to its thriving sectors such as IT, healthcare, and education.

Although Barnali has not personally faced discrimination, she acknowledges the challenges some Indian residents face, including difficulty securing housing. Her advice for newcomers is simple—”Reach out to other communities and forge friendships.”

A hub for global talent and academic excellence

Approximately 38% of Cambridge’s population was born outside the UK, far exceeding the national average of 17%. The city’s global appeal is fueled by its prestigious universities—University of Cambridge and Anglia Ruskin University—and over 60 multinational companies that attract international talent, the report says.

• Despite its prosperity, Cambridge also faces economic inequality

• The top 80% of earners make more than twice as much as the bottom 20%, making it one of the most unequal cities in the UK

Catharine Walston, a trustee of the Cambridge Refugee Resettlement Campaign, quoted highlighting the plight of asylum seekers, who make up less than 0.5% of the population.

The charity provides English lessons, bicycles for schoolchildren, and free laptops to support new arrivals.

Catharine believes the city’s well-educated population fosters welcoming attitudes toward asylum seekers. She emphasizes that while most non-UK passport holders are not underprivileged, a small number face significant hardships.

Balancing growth and housing challenges

• The city’s population surged by 17.6% between 2011 and 2021, reaching 145,700, the largest increase in the East of England
• This rapid growth has intensified the housing affordability crisis, with average house prices in Cambridge hitting £515,000 in December 2023, compared to the £271,000 national average
• Private rents averaged £1,755 per month, 32% higher than the UK average

The report quoted Gerri Bird, the city council’s executive councillor for housing, who acknowledged that rising costs affect everyone, from lifelong residents to key workers.

The Greater Cambridge area now has an annual housing target of 2,309 new homes, but local resistance to further development remains strong. “A number of people don’t want to see new houses being built,” says urban economist Paul Swinney, who emphasizes the need for more housing to sustain economic growth.

Building cultural bridges in the community

Reem Assil, 47, moved to Cambridge from Syria in 2012 after fleeing political unrest. While she initially struggled with isolation, she found purpose by co-founding Makani, a group that celebrates Arab culture.

Through Eid al-Fitr celebrations and drumming sessions, Makani brings together people from diverse backgrounds. Reem’s vision is to expand the group to share a wide range of cultures, fostering a spirit of unity.

“The goal is not to reinforce divides, but bring everyone together,” she says, echoing the broader ethos of Cambridge as a city that thrives on inclusivity and cultural exchange.

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