Leeds is the larger business hub with 47,811 active companies, compared to 21,597 in Bradford. While size differs, comparing their industry profiles, formation trends, and growth rates reveals what makes each city's business environment distinctive. Both cities share strength in Activities of other holding companies n.e.c. and Buying and selling of own real estate.
Leeds has 47,811 active companies compared to 21,597 in Bradford — 26,214 more.
Bradford has a higher 2020s company formation rate (67.4%) compared to Leeds (56.0%).
Both cities share these top industries: Activities of other holding companies n.e.c., Buying and selling of own real estate, Management consultancy activities other than financial management, Other business support service activities n.e.c., Other human health activities. Leeds is uniquely strong in Development of building projects and Information technology consultancy activities, while Bradford stands out in Other service activities n.e.c. and Sale of used cars and light motor vehicles.