Latest employment data for March 2026 shows the number of employees on payroll in Cheshire East was 185,833, up 0.2 per cent on the same month last year.

However, businesses reported that payroll fell by seven per cent, indicating continued pressure on jobs.

Overall, employment in Cheshire East is higher than a year ago, with employers reporting an increase of 409 (0.2 per cent) in payroll headcount.

The figures are based on analysis of the latest Office for National Statistics payroll data by the employment and pay app WageSight.

Compared with other towns and cities in the North West, Cheshire East ranks second out of 20, placing it among the strongest performers for employment change.

The trend in Cheshire East reflects a mixed employment picture across the North West, with some areas reporting improvements while others continue to see pressure on payroll numbers.

Nationally, employment levels have shown a mixed picture over the past year, creating a challenging backdrop.

WageSight Director, Paul Hebden, said: "Employment in Cheshire East has improved over the past year, and recent data points to a more positive outlook.

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"The key question now is whether employers can sustain this momentum in the months ahead."

It remains too early to say whether recent changes mark the start of a sustained shift, or a temporary fluctuation.