Rental trends across the UK are becoming increasingly fragmented, with sharp rises in Scotland, Northern Ireland and London contrasting with falling rents across parts of Wales and northern England, according to the latest Rental Price and Salary Tracker.
The data, released ahead of the introduction of the Renters’ Rights Act, shows Scotland recorded one of the strongest monthly increases in April, with average rents rising 3.9% from £1,123 to £1,167.
London also saw a significant rebound, with rents climbing 3% month-on-month to £2,259, reinforcing continued affordability pressures across the capital.
Northern Ireland recorded a 3.7% monthly increase, taking average rents to £920, although annual salary requirements eased slightly year-on-year, suggesting some improvement in affordability relative to income.
FALLING RENTS
But several regions also recorded falling rents during the month, including Wales (-3.4%), the North East (-3%) and the North West (-2.6%).
The figures underline widening regional divergence across the private rented sector, with stronger demand continuing to support rents in higher-pressure markets while some areas begin to see price corrections.
London remains by far the most expensive rental market in the UK, with tenants needing a representative annual salary of £67,770 to secure an average-priced property.
Across the wider market, affordability pressures remain significant despite signs rental inflation is moderating compared with previous peaks.
REGIONALISED MARKET
Megan Eighteen (main picture, inset), President of ARLA Propertymark, says: “The latest figures continue to show a highly regionalised rental market, with some areas experiencing noticeable monthly growth while others are seeing mild corrections.
“This divergence reflects ongoing imbalances between supply and demand across different parts of the UK, rather than a uniform national trend.
“While rental inflation has generally moderated compared with previous peaks, the most recent data highlights that conditions remain mixed, with continued pressure in higher-demand locations such as London and Scotland, alongside softer or declining rents in parts of Wales and northern England.”
TRANSITION PERIOD
She adds: “Looking ahead, the market remains sensitive to broader economic conditions and evolving regulatory changes.
“With the Renters’ Rights Act commencing across England in May 2026, the sector will also be entering a period of transition as landlords and letting agents adapt to the new legislative framework.
“How this interacts with existing affordability pressures and supply dynamics will be an important factor to monitor over the coming months.
“Overall, affordability remains a key constraint for many households, and the direction of rents is likely to continue varying significantly by region rather than moving in a single national pattern.”
