City Profile
Paisley, Scotland
UK · Comprehensive city data and intelligence
Paisley is the largest town in Renfrewshire, Scotland, situated on the banks of the White Cart Water just southwest of Glasgow. Renowned for its rich industrial heritage, particularly the iconic Paisley pattern textile design, the town has evolved into a vibrant cultural hub. Today, it successfully blends historic architectural landmarks like Paisley Abbey with modern amenities, educational institutions, and a strong sense of community pride.
Scotland, a constituent country of the United Kingdom, is known for its rich history, distinct culture, and dramatic landscapes, ranging from vibrant cities to serene Highlands. The economy is a mixed, service-based economy with key industries including finance, technology, energy (oil, gas, and renewables), food and drink (especially whisky), tourism, and life sciences. The cost of living in Scotland is generally lower than in other parts of the UK, with average monthly expenses for a single person around $1,962, though cities like Edinburgh can be more expensive. The climate is temperate and oceanic, often changeable but rarely extreme, with average winter lows around 0°C and summer highs averaging 15-17°C. Scottish people are often described as friendly, patriotic, practical, and forthright, with a strong sense of community and a love for their arts and traditions.
How this 64/100 was calculated five components, with every reading behind them
| Component | Readings used | Points | Weight | Contributes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Safety | Safety score: 68 / 100 | 68.0 | 30% | 20.4 |
| Affordability | Cost of living index (100 = national baseline): 75.0 | 75.0 | 25% | 18.8 |
| Economy & jobs | Median household income: $44,000 Income needed to live here: $38,000 Unemployment rate: 4.5% | 56.7 | 20% | 11.3 |
| Growth | Population growth rate: 0.5% Job growth rate: 1.5% | 43.8 | 15% | 6.6 |
| Business climate assessment | Business climate assessment: 65 / 100 | 65.0 | 10% | 6.5 |
| Overall score | 63.6 | |||
Provenance.
These figures were produced by the research pass recorded as
Gemini (ungrounded) (q=54, partial — below threshold), last refreshed
17 October 2026.
They are researched estimates drawn from public sources, not a licensed data feed.
Each component is scored against fixed published endpoints, so this number is comparable with any other city and does not move as the dataset grows. Scoring framework 2026.10 — full methodology, weights and accepted ranges.
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Cost of Living
The cost of living in Paisley is notably more affordable than in neighboring Glasgow and significantly lower than the UK national average. Housing, utilities, and everyday consumer goods offer exceptional value, making the town an attractive option for families and young professionals alike. While local wages align with regional Scottish averages, residents benefit from a lower cost baseline that stretches purchasing power further.
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Paisley's economy is anchored by healthcare, education, public administration, and retail services. Major local employers include the Royal Alexandra Hospital and the University of the West of Scotland campus. Additionally, the town's immediate adjacency to Glasgow International Airport drives employment in logistics, aviation support, and hospitality sectors.
The average salary in Paisley is $42,000 per year. You would need approximately $38,000 to live comfortably.
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Paisley boasts exceptional connectivity, anchored by Paisley Gilmour Street station, which provides frequent rail links to Glasgow, Edinburgh, and Ayrshire. The town is highly walkable in the central district, complemented by comprehensive local bus networks connecting surrounding neighborhoods. Furthermore, its immediate proximity to Glasgow Airport makes domestic and international travel exceptionally convenient.
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