While the national headlines often focus on the challenges of the high street, the latest data compiled by Insider Media for its annual Yorkshire Rich List reveals a city where the "old guard" of industry is being joined by a new wave of green-energy pioneers and infrastructure giants.
Leeds continues to act as the financial and industrial engine of the North, with the combined wealth of the city's top figures reaching into the multi-billions.
The rankings highlight a significant shift in how the city's fortunes are being made, as while traditional sectors like construction and property remain the bedrock of Leeds' wealth, there is also movement from entrepreneurs capitalising on the transition to net-zero and the digital revolution.
The list also reflects a year of "winners and losers," as Insider Media notes that high interest rates and fluctuating material costs impacted established names in construction and car dealerships. Yet, with several high-profile new entries breaking into the top tier, it’s clear that the Leeds business landscape is evolving at a breakneck pace.
So who are set to continue to be the movers and shakers in the business world in the city as 2026 arrives?
Here are the 17 richest people and families in Leeds as we enter the new year.
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7. Stephen and Paul Harrison – Construction (£231m)
The Harrison brothers founded their Leeds-based housebuilding firm, Harron Homes, in their twenties. Despite a tougher trading year following the end of the Help to Buy scheme, the pair remain among the city's wealthiest property moguls. | Harron Homes
8. Nick Howarth and family – Construction (£258m)
Traceable back to 1840, Howarth Timber is a cornerstone of Leeds industry. Though falling timber prices hit their 2024 profits, the family continues to operate a massive network of 37 merchants and specialist manufacturing subsidiaries. | Provided
9. Wayne Earnshaw and family – Construction (£300m)
The Earnshaw family saw their fortune leap this year after investment giant BlackRock took a controlling stake in Lanes Group. The drainage and sewerage specialist, which Wayne took over from his father, now employs nearly 4,000 staff. | James Hardisty
10. John Tordoff and family – Consumer Goods (£312m)
Tordoff oversees JCT 600, the legendary Leeds-based car dealership chain. Named after his father’s "JCT 600" number plate, the group remains the primary destination for luxury vehicles in the North, despite a dip in overall car sales profits this year. | Tony Johnson
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11. Frank Hester – Business Services (£318m)
Hester is the sole owner of TPP, a Leeds software firm whose technology manages 61 million NHS patient records. While dividends remain high, his overall worth dipped slightly following significant donations to the Conservative Party. | NationalWorld
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12. Mark Hunter – Business Services (£425m)
Hunter saw a major payday in early 2025 when BJSS, the Leeds IT consultancy he co-founded, was sold to a Canadian group in a deal valuing the firm at £675m. His diverse portfolio now includes stakes in craft breweries and fine wines. | Chris - stock.adobe.com