Living and working in West Yorkshire

West Yorkshire has a vibrant economy and a modern and inspiring place to live, work and settle down

Our City Region is more than just a vibrant economy - it’s a modern and inspiring place to live, work and settle down.

There’s a rich cultural heritage, unspoilt rural assets and contemporary urban developments that suit 21st century lifestyle and leisure.  

Affordable and well-connected

The cost of living in West Yorkshire is lower than many other UK cities including Manchester, Brighton and Bristol.

West Yorkshire is at the heart of the UK, well connected by road, rail, and air. London is two hours away by rail, and there are hourly direct trains to Edinburgh, while Leeds Bradford Airport services destinations across Europe, North America and Asia. 

Beautiful countryside

Our modern cities are surrounded by three national parks and stunning countrysideincluding the Dales and Yorkshire moors. Our beautiful villages and striking towns are steeped in history, such as Haworth and its famous Bronte Sisters, the Salts Mill in Bradford, birthplace of the artist David Hockney, and the Piece Hall in Halifax. 

Leisure and entertainment

West Yorkshire is now a major destination for recreation. As well as Harvey Nichols, we have Leeds’ Trinity, a £350 million retail and leisure destination, and Victoria Gate, which hosts high-end and designer brands, including the North’s region’s flagship John Lewis store.  

Aside from retail, Leeds is also home to the First Direct Arena, a world-class entertainment venue with a 13,500 capacity that attracts major international headline acts.   

Food and drink

West Yorkshire boasts a thriving food and drink scene, with sophisticated dining, quirky cafes and the street food revolution have all come together to make Leeds a must visit destination for foodies.  

The region boasts Michelin-starred and Michelin Bib Gourmand-rated restaurants, as well as the innovative Leeds’ Trinity Kitchen, which offers an ever-changing range of street food styles to experience. 

Art, culture and history

Our region is famous for nurturing creative minds. Artists like Henry Moore, Barbara Hepworth, David Hockney and Damien Hirst all originate from Yorkshire, or came to study at our leading colleges of art and design. 

We have internationally-renowned galleries and cultural space the 122 hectare Yorkshire Sculpture Park and the Henry Moore Institute in Leeds city centre, while the award-winning Opera North and Northern Ballet are both based in the City Region. 

Find your role with the West Yorkshire Combined Authority

Find out about the job vacancies currently available and apply for a role online

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