The highest paid workers in Wales are more likely to live in the south east of the country according to research by a leading high street bank.

The report entitled Affluentials shows that the majority of the richest earners live in the Vale of Glamorgan.

The number of high earners under 30 in certain parts of Wales is a good indicator of where the 'up and coming' areas are

Gordon Rankin, Barclays

Research by Barclays, has revealed that 3.6% of people living in the county earn more than �60,000 a year.

But the study showed that more young rich are living in areas which have low numbers of high earners.

The research examined the areas where the wealthy under-30s chose to live.

It discovered that Cardiff south and Penarth attracted the most young and rich.

But indicated that young people were setting up homes where house prices are cheaper.

The young rich are settling in Blaenau Gwent

Even though Swansea east and Blaenau Gwent, has some of the lowest number of high earners in Wales - it has a high proportion under the age of 30.

"The number of high earners under 30 in certain parts of Wales is a good indicator of where the 'up and coming' areas are," said marketing director of Barclays private clients, Gordon Rankin.

"It clearly shows that there are still large salaries available for the right candidate," added Mr Rankin.

Despite the south east being attractive to high earners, less than 1% choose to live in counties in the south Wales Valleys.

Only 0.5% of the people living in Blaenau Gwent are a salary of more than �60,000.

Just 0.6% of the population of Rhondda and no more than 0.8% of Cynon Valley, Merthyr and Rhymney citizens boast a similar wage.

Islwyn claims just 1% of residents with such an income.

High salaries

After the Vale of Glamorgan, wealthier employees are more likely to be found residing in Cardiff central (3.4%), Cardiff north (3.2%) and Monmouth (3.2%).

In north Wales, Wrexham came top of the list for the most high earners with 2.2% of the population.

It demonstrates how pockets of the UK are thriving economically

Gordon Rankin, Barclays

Clwyd west and Alyn and Deeside followed, jointly ranking a 2% figure.

"This study shows that Wales is attracting significant numbers of professional and business people earning high salaries," said Mr Rankin.

"The degree of affluence in many areas rivals that of more traditionally wealthy areas in the South East (England).

"It demonstrates how pockets of the UK are thriving economically," he added.