Who Lives in Salford
Understanding the people and communities around you
Salford is one of the most diverse and dynamic cities in the north of England. It’s working-class at heart, but changing fast — with a mix of long-time locals, young professionals, students, and international residents. If you’re new to the UK, you won’t be alone here.
🌍 A City of Many Backgrounds
Salford’s population is around 260,000 and growing. Over the past 15–20 years, the city has become increasingly international — especially in healthcare, construction, retail, and hospitality.
You’ll meet people from all over the world, including:
- 🇵🇰 Pakistan
- 🇵🇱 Poland
- 🇮🇳 India
- 🇳🇬 Nigeria
- 🇧🇩 Bangladesh
- 🇷🇴 Romania
- 🇸🇴 Somalia
- 🇵🇭 The Philippines
- 🇬🇧 Local British families from the Manchester region
Many people living in Salford were born outside the UK, or are first-generation British. English is spoken everywhere — but you’ll also hear Urdu, Arabic, Polish, Yoruba, and Punjabi in shops, buses, or at work.
💬 Don’t be afraid of your accent or English level. People here are used to different voices and usually appreciate the effort.
👨👩👧 Age & Lifestyle
Salford is a multi-generational city:
- Families with children (especially in Swinton, Eccles, and Irlam)
- Older residents who have lived here all their lives
- Younger professionals in MediaCity or Manchester city centre
- University of Salford students in the Crescent area
- Care and NHS staff from all over the world
It’s a place where many different life stories mix — from someone who’s never left Salford, to someone who just arrived last week, like you.
🕌 Faith & Culture
Salford has places of worship and community for many faiths:
- 🕌 Mosques (e.g. Eccles Mosque, Masjid-e-Noor in Pendlebury)
- ⛪ Christian churches — both traditional and community-led
- 🕍 Synagogues (in nearby Prestwich and Whitefield)
- 🛕 Temples and cultural groups in the wider Manchester area
There are also cultural supermarkets, food stores, and events that reflect the diversity of the region.