Monday 02 May 2016 11:32 am

Do you live in these areas paying the most income tax in Britain?

By: Lynsey Barber

Residents of Elmbridge in Surrey, dubbed the Beverly Hills of Britain, are paying more income tax than any spot in the country, new research reveals.

Home to high profile celebrities such as Elton John and sports star Andy Murray, those living in the area are paying £17,800 in income tax each year, on average, and five per cent more than last year as the average income in the area grew to £64,500.

Areas across the commuter belt in Surrey, Buckinghamshire, Berkshire and Kent, are among 26 of the 30 areas with the highest income tax bill, according to the research by UHY Hacker Young, reflecting residents higher earnings.

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“Elmbridge is a sought after residential area for high earning celebrities and city brokers. With a number of huge properties with large private grounds, it is a hotspot for wealthy city workers wanting to escape London,” said Mark Giddens, head of private client services at the accountancy group.

Londoners have the 22nd highest income tax bill, on average, at £8,980 and a nine per cent rise on the previous year, with average income standing at £43,300.

Manchester's surrounding areas, also home to some well known names such as Sir Alex Ferguson, made an appearance on the list of Britain's income tax hotspots, with Altrincham and Tatton two of only four areas outside the south east to make the list.

“Manchester is growing in importance to the UK economy and is seen as a good alternative business hub to London. The rising incomes in these areas indicate that Manchester’s economy is going from strength to strength,” said Giddens.