Manchester dwarfs York in scale with 98,695 active companies versus 16,696 — a 5.9x difference. Despite the size gap, both cities play distinct roles in the UK economy. York may be smaller, but its industry mix and growth patterns offer unique advantages. Both cities share strength in Activities of other holding companies n.e.c. and Buying and selling of own real estate.
Manchester has 98,695 active companies compared to 16,696 in York — 81,999 more.
Manchester has a higher 2020s company formation rate (64.3%) compared to York (46.4%).
Both cities share these top industries: Activities of other holding companies n.e.c., Buying and selling of own real estate, Dormant Company, Management consultancy activities other than financial management, Other business support service activities n.e.c.. Manchester is uniquely strong in Non-specialised wholesale trade and Other human health activities, while York stands out in Business and domestic software development and Development of building projects.