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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13. Roderick Evans and family – Property (£460m)
Grandson of founder Fred Evans, Roderick oversees a massive real estate portfolio that includes the White Rose Shopping Centre and the Dakota Hotels chain. The family owns over 65 commercial buildings and hundreds of acres of agricultural land. | YPN
14. Paul and Johnny Caddick and family – Construction (£516m)
The Caddick family's influence spans from housebuilding to professional sports. While Paul chairs the property group, Johnny runs the build-to-rent giant Moda Living. They also own the Leeds Rhinos and the Headingley stadium. | UGC
15. Lawrence Tomlinson and family – Construction (£524m)
The man behind LNT Group, Tomlinson is on track to build his 300th care home by 2026. When he isn't dominating the care sector, he is producing high-performance supercars through his Leeds-based manufacturer, Ginetta. | Simon Hulme
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16. Steve Parkin – Transport (£530m)
The former truck driver turned logistics tycoon made his fortune with Clipper. Now based in Jersey, Parkin’s wealth continues to grow through his private jet and racehorse companies, making him one of the city's most successful self-made exports. | Simon Hulme
17. Philip Meeson and family – Transport (£750m)
At the top of the Leeds-specific list, the former RAF pilot transformed a small flower-ferrying business into Jet2. Now the UK’s leading package holiday brand, Meeson’s aviation empire continues to see record-breaking revenues. | Simon Hulme