## Rent Levels Surpass £1,000 in Majority of UK Local Authorities

Zoopla’s recent figures reveal a significant rise in average monthly rents across Great Britain, with 52% of local authorities recording rents above £1,000 in November 2025. This marks a notable increase from 23% in 2020, highlighting the growing cost pressures within the private rented sector. For landlords and agents, this trend emphasises the importance of regional market awareness when setting rent levels and managing tenant expectations.

## Regional Variations Highlighted

The South East has seen the most dramatic change, with the number of councils where average rents exceed £1,000 growing from 32 to 63 over five years. This means 98% of local authorities in the region now have rents above this threshold. Similarly, the Eastern region has expanded from 14 to 36 councils, with 80% of its local authorities surpassing £1,000 rents.

London remains consistent, with all 33 boroughs maintaining average rents above £1,000 in both 2020 and 2025. The South West has also experienced a sharp rise, increasing from two councils to 18, representing 69% of the region. Other regions such as the West Midlands, Scotland, and the East Midlands have smaller but notable increases, while the North East records only one local authority above the threshold.

For landlords, these regional disparities underline the need to tailor rent strategies according to local market conditions rather than relying on national averages.

## Market Conditions Shifting in Favour of Renters

Richard Donnell, Zoopla’s executive director, comments on the evolving rental landscape: “While renting has become more expensive and is an important cost for household budgets, the market is shifting in renters’ favour. Slower rent growth, increased choice and more stable outlooks mean cost-of-living pressures from rent are easing rather than intensifying.”

This suggests that despite higher average rents, the pace of rent increases is moderating, which could influence landlord decisions on rent reviews and new tenancy agreements. Donnell also emphasises the importance of expanding the rental market: “Growing the size of the rental market – private and affordable homes – is the best route to further reducing the pressure on renters.”

## Slower Growth in New Tenancy Rents and Increased Supply

Zoopla’s data shows that annual rent growth for new tenancies slowed to 1.9% in the year to November 2025, marking the lowest rate in four years. Concurrently, available rental supply has increased by 14% compared with the previous year. This rise in supply is attributed mainly to lower international migration for work and study, alongside improved prospects for first-time buyers exiting the rental market.

For landlords and letting agents, this slowing growth and increased supply may signal a more balanced market, potentially requiring more competitive rent setting and marketing strategies to attract tenants.

## Implications for UK Landlords and Agents

The data underscores a rental market that is still experiencing high average rents but with signs of stabilisation. Landlords should consider regional rent benchmarks carefully and be mindful of the slowing growth trend when planning rent increases. Additionally, the increased supply of rental properties may mean greater competition for tenants, making property condition and service quality increasingly important.

Understanding these dynamics will help landlords and agents navigate the evolving market, balancing profitability with tenant retention in a shifting economic environment.

Suggested internal link anchors

– average monthly rents
– rental market trends
– rent growth rates
– regional rent differences
– private rented sector
– tenant demand and supply
– rent setting strategies
– cost-of-living pressures
– new tenancy rents
– rental property supply
– landlord rent reviews
– affordable housing market

TLA update

TLA is launching a new Trusted Partners Hub in Q1 2026, featuring verified and approved service providers selected to support landlords, tenants, and property management businesses. We are inviting legal, trades, insurance, financial, mortgage, tenant screening, and other service providers to register their interest here: https://landlordassociation.org.uk/become-a-tla-service-partner/