Living in Leeds
Leeds is a contemporary, energetic city, with a rich heritage and a strong economic base, making it one of the top cities for business in Europe. The ‘Capital of the North’ is the largest city in Yorkshire and is recognised as one of the UK’s most successful. It has transformed itself over the last 20 years from an industrial city into a commercial centre, and is the most important financial, legal and business service centre outside of London. Leeds has benefited from continued and significant economic growth in the past decade, with major investments being made in both the public and private sectors.
Leeds is a world-class city and is a quality place to live, work and raise families, having attracted the largest population increase in the country, 4.9% since 2001. The current population of over 750,000 embraces a rich diversity of 130 different nationalities, with an additional 100,000 people commuting into the city to work.
Leeds is also a major centre of learning for further and higher education, with two leading universities and several notable colleges making up a total student population of over 200,000. Leeds University is one of the UK’s top ten universities for research and, with one of the widest range of academic courses in the UK, is at the forefront of innovation. Leeds Metropolitan University has brought together some of the great names in British higher education such as Carnegie and Leeds College of Art.
As one of Europe’s greenest cities, Leeds has acres of parkland to discover, as well as two-thirds of its area being green belt land, and the beautiful Yorkshire countryside and coastline in close proximity to the compact city centre. It is also conveniently placed at the very heart of the UK, with accessible road, rail and air links.
The Leeds lifestyle has a lot to offer, with its famous vibrant night life and a thriving arts and cultural scene, including award-winning restaurants and a growing collection of concert halls, theatres, galleries, museums and sporting venues. There is a diverse range of public events to take advantage of, as well as some fantastic shopping on offer, whether it be in the regenerated city centre and Victorian arcades or one of the many local shopping centres.
Leeds boasts famous sporting landmarks including Elland Road and Headingley Carnegie Stadium, home of the rugby and cricket teams. Our city is also home to the Leeds International Pianoforte Competition, Leeds International Film Festival, performance venues of Leeds Town Hall and the West Yorkshire Playhouse, and top international performing companies such as Opera North and Northern Ballet.
Leeds is a friendly, cosmopolitan city with so many business and leisure opportunities that you are sure to enjoy working and living here.
