The population of Bristol has soared in the past 10 years, with the number of people living in the city rising from 390,000 to 428,000. Originally a city that thrived on ship-building and its port trade, today, Bristol's largest employment sectors are aerospace and defence with the financial services, engineering and construction just behind. Bristol's population increase can be attributed to its cultural relevance and its cosmopolitan areas that propel the city above neighbouring areas and appeal to students and professionals alike.