Leeds has the firm reputation as a vibrant, diverse and thriving city, with an evolving cultural existence. Leeds may not be as domineering as other English cities such as Manchester, or London, but it regularly rates highly as one of the best places to live in the UK in terms of cost of living, happiness and employment.
History of Leeds
Leeds’ history dates back many centuries and encompasses its change from a market town into a textiles hub which handled one sixth of the England’s export in the 18th century. The city’s export growth was accelerated with the completion of the Aire and Calder Navigation in 1669 and the Leeds and Liverpool canal in 1861. The arrival of the railways led to further growth for the city, with the introduction of an east-to-west connection with Manchester and the ports of Liverpool and Hull providing improved access to international markets.
Due to the decline in both the manufacturing and clothing industry in the 20th century, the city’s the new economic focus transitioned into the contemporary and booming economy which the city is now known for. Leeds’ regional economy is now the 2nd largest in the UK after London and has a large focus on the professional services and the banking sectors, with many internationally renowned technology, healthcare and manufacturing firms being based in the city.
Living in Leeds
Leeds has the well-deserved reputation as one of the hippest cities in the UK, with many neighbourhoods outside of and within the city centre which are thriving. If you are looking for a refreshing breather away from the hustle and bustle of the city centre, the neighbourhoods of Chapel Allerton or Roundhay would be ideal. Alternatively, if you are looking for the best of city living, the neighbourhoods of Northern Quarter or Leeds Waterfront would be perfect for you.
Getting around Leeds is very simple due to the city’s extensive public transport network which covers road, rail and bus links. This already extensive transport network is set to receive an additional boost when HS2 arrives in the city in 2035-2040 significantly reducing journey times to other major UK cities such as London, Birmingham, Manchester and Nottingham. The city is also home to the Leeds Bradford Airport, located to the north-west of the city providing scheduled flights to many European destinations.
Leeds is a thriving student city with over 60,000 students across four universities; University of Leeds, Leeds Beckett, Leeds Trinity University and Leeds Arts University. STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths) graduates in Leeds outnumber those in Manchester and Birmingham. Holding a broad and widely skilled degree, these are highly sought-after students who bring a wealth of valuable skills to the workforce.
Moving to Leeds
The sales and rental market in Leeds is on the up largely due to the various regeneration schemes across the city. With the latest forecasts anticipating a 16% increase in rental prices and house prices over the next 5 years, outperforming rental and house prices in London. Leeds has so much to offer its residents due to the city’s thriving cultural scene and a booming local economy, so its easy to see why so many people are moving to the city or looking to invest in the city.
If you are looking to move to Leeds, Centenary House may be ideal as its conveniently located in the north-eastern corner of Leeds’s shopping quarter providing quick and easy access to many of the city’s amenities. To find out more information about Centenary House, register with us today by completing the below form.
