Leeds VS York

Leeds is the larger business hub with 48,447 active companies, compared to 16,706 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
Active48,447
Total60,510
2020s Growth56.1%
Oldest Co.1873
York
Active16,706
Total19,026
2020s Growth46.4%
Oldest Co.1869

Head-to-Head

Active Companies
48,447
16,706
Total Registered
60,510
19,026
Dissolved Companies
4,421
1,001
2020s Growth Rate
561%
464%
LeedsYork

Company Formation by Decade

Leeds
Pre-1990
1,760
1990s
1,547
2000s
5,313
2010s
18,100
2020s
32,983
York
Pre-1990
793
1990s
592
2000s
2,400
2010s
6,098
2020s
8,939

Frequently Asked Questions

Which city has more registered companies, Leeds or York?

Leeds has 48,447 active companies compared to 16,706 in York — 31,741 more.

Which is growing faster, Leeds or York?

Leeds has a higher 2020s company formation rate (56.1%) 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.