"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"
- Megan Eighteen - ARLA Propertymark
Average rents across the UK rental market currently stand at £1,445 per month, with monthly rents edging up 0.7% but annual growth sitting at -0.7%, according to the latest data from ARLA Propertymark.
A typical annual salary of £43,710 is required to meet standard agency referencing criteria, though affordability conditions vary considerably by region.
Scotland recorded one of the strongest monthly increases, with average rents rising from £1,123 to £1,167, a 3.9% month-on-month gain, reinforcing continued upward pressure in the Scottish market. Northern Ireland also posted significant growth, with rents climbing from £887 to £920 (+3.7%).
Alongside that rise, annual salary requirements in Northern Ireland fell to £27,600, a 2.4% year-on-year reduction, suggesting affordability on income measures is improving despite the uptick in rents.
London rebounded following a prior dip, with average rents rising from £2,193 to £2,259, a 3.0% monthly increase. At the other end of the scale, Wales (-3.4%), the North East (-3.0%), and the North West (-2.6%) all recorded monthly declines, pointing to a clear split between growth and correction across the country.
"The latest figures continue to show a highly regionalised rental market, with some areas experiencing noticeable monthly growth while others are seeing mild corrections," said Megan Eighteen, president of ARLA Propertymark.
"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 moderated compared with previous peaks, conditions remain uneven. Eighteen noted that pressure continues in higher-demand locations such as London and Scotland, while rents are softening or declining in parts of Wales and northern England.
The regulatory outlook adds another layer of complexity. "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," she said.
"How this interacts with existing affordability pressures and supply dynamics will be an important factor to monitor over the coming months."
The report, which analyses average agreed rental prices alongside the annual salary levels typically required by referencing agencies, tracks affordability across regions. The methodology gives a clearer picture of accessibility in the private rented sector relative to local incomes.
Broader economic conditions are also expected to shape the market's direction. "The market remains sensitive to broader economic conditions and evolving regulatory changes," Eighteen added.
"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."
