But for those who prefer a quieter life, there are plenty of desirable towns and villages within a commutable distance of the city.
These 11 lesser-known areas boast stunning scenery, quality local shops, cafes and good transport links to Leeds city centre. They have plenty of green space and schools nearby, making them perfect for families too.
7. Holmfirth
It's known as the filming location for the BBC's Last of the Summer Wine, but this village is also a great place to live. Just six miles south of Huddersfield, the town mainly consists of stone-built cottages built into the Pennine hills. It takes approximately one hour and 17 minutes to travel to Leeds city centre via public transport, or a 40 minute drive along the M1. | Bruce Rollinson Photo: Bruce Rollinson
8. Bramham
The village was recently voted one of the most desirable places to live in Leeds by our readers, and it has a long history that dates back to the Romans. Today the village has great local pubs, a primary school and a thriving community. It takes around 45 minutes on the bus to get to Leeds city centre, or 30 minutes drive. | Jonathan Gawthorpe Photo: Jonathan Gawthorpe
9. Haworth
The home of the Brontë sisters is popular with tourists due to its fascinating literary history, heritage railway and beautiful moors. It's also a great place to live. Public transport commuters can get to Leeds via Keighley, changing there to get on a direct train to Leeds Station. Drivers can go through Bradford to Leeds and it takes around 45 minutes. | Christopher Furlong / Getty Images Photo: Christopher Furlong / Getty Images
10. Tadcaster
The market town is perfect for families who want a quieter life but with easy commuter links to Leeds. It is well known for the Grade-II listed eleven-arch Tadcaster viaduct above the Wharf Bridge. It takes 28 minutes to drive from Tadcaster to Leeds city centre. The 843 Coastliner bus takes just under an hour. | James Hardisty Photo: James Hardisty
11. Grassington
The perfect place for those who want to be in the heart of the Yorkshire Dales and do not mind a slightly longer commute. The village is surrounded by limestone scenery and is centred on a small cobbled square, filled with shops, pubs, cafes and restaurants. It takes one hour and six minutes to drive to Leeds city centre. It takes one hour and 30 minutes to get to Leeds Station via public transport. | James Hardisty Photo: James Hardisty