Leeds VS York

Leeds is the larger business hub with 47,811 active companies, compared to 16,538 in York. 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.

Key Figures

Leeds
Active47,811
Total61,053
2020s Growth56.0%
Oldest Co.1873
York
Active16,538
Total19,146
2020s Growth46.4%
Oldest Co.1869

Head-to-Head

Active Companies
47,811
16,538
Total Registered
61,053
19,146
Dissolved Companies
6,921
1,643
2020s Growth Rate
560%
464%
LeedsYork

Company Formation by Decade

Leeds
Pre-1990
1,763
1990s
1,542
2000s
5,323
2010s
18,091
2020s
33,521
York
Pre-1990
797
1990s
594
2000s
2,400
2010s
6,094
2020s
9,057

Frequently Asked Questions

Which city has more registered companies, Leeds or York?

Leeds has 47,811 active companies compared to 16,538 in York — 31,273 more.

Which is growing faster, Leeds or York?

Leeds has a higher 2020s company formation rate (56.0%) compared to York (46.4%).

What industries do Leeds and York have in common?

Both cities share these top industries: Activities of other holding companies n.e.c., Buying and selling of own real estate, Development of building projects, Information technology consultancy activities, Management consultancy activities other than financial management. Leeds is uniquely strong in Other human health activities and Retail sale via mail order houses or via Internet, while York stands out in Business and domestic software development and Dormant Company.