UK Rental Prices Accelerate to 3.7% Annual Growth as Rents Hit £1,393 Monthly
Average private rents in the UK reached £1,393 per month in July 2026, rising 3.7% annually and marking an acceleration from the 3.3% growth seen in June. Regional variation remains stark, with London far exceeding other areas.
Private rents across the UK climbed 3.7% over the 12 months to July 2026, reaching an average of £1,393 per month, the Office for National Statistics reported on 19 August. This represents a pickup in the pace of growth compared to 3.3% in June, signaling renewed upward pressure on the rental market even as demand shows signs of moderating.
Regional Breakdown and Price Variations
England leads the growth, with average rents rising 3.8% to £1,451 per month. Wales saw faster growth at 4.5% (reaching £843), while Scotland's rents inched up just 1.7% to £1,016. London remains the priciest market at an average of £2,302 per month, while the North East is most affordable at £781. Outside London, Oxford commands the highest rents at £1,961 per month.
What This Means for You
If you're an expat looking to rent, expect to budget around £1,400–1,500 per month for an average flat in most UK cities—substantially more in London or other hotspots like Cambridge or Edinburgh. The market remains tight, with demand still exceeding supply in many areas, giving landlords pricing power. However, some research suggests letting speeds are slowing as tenant affordability tightens, meaning properties are taking longer to let. If you're planning a house move, securing housing early and comparing multiple regions may offer better value than waiting.
Sources
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