Table 9 Gross Weekly Pay

Incomes and Earnings

In 2017 Mid and East Antrim had amongst the highest gross weekly pay across Northern Ireland, with only Belfast, Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon and Antrim and Newtownabbeyshowing higherweekly wages.

Table 9: Gross Weekly Pay Mid and East Antrim

Median Wage Median Wage 2013 2017 Increase

All

£357.40 £376.60 £19.20 (5.4%) Full Time £474.90 £487.80 £12.90 (2.7%) Part Time £153.60 £192.70 £39.10 (25.4%)

Source: NINIS

Future Prospects

There are a number of risks, which could have implications for the Northern Ireland and the Mid and East Antrim economy. These include political instability, further austerity and an expected impact of the UK leaving the EU on consumer spending and business investment. Although the preferred option is not for a hard border in Northern Ireland potential barriers for businesses in relation to the EU single market and cross-border tradeare stillconcerns.

Productivity in Mid and East Antrimcan be seen to be performing well and the rate of employment has been shown to be traditionally higher than the NI average. The economy shows an improving picture from 2013 to date and while it could be considered to be returning to long term trends, it is not certain how sustainable this will be in light of the changing political climate.

It is important to note that the economy and the housing market are cyclical and intertwined. Economic performance, income levels, and the structure of employment are important contributing factors in the mix and tenure of housing required. For example thegrowth of professional and higher paid jobs may increase demand for family housing, while service and customer care posts may attract younger, single people seeking smaller and lower value dwellings.