As autumn progresses, the UK rental market continues to show familiar pressures: rents are rising, choice remains constrained and competition for good properties continues.
There are, however, significant differences between locations and property types, making preparation and realistic expectations as important as ever.
Rents are still rising
The latest ONS figures show that average private rents across the UK reached £1,406 per month in September 2026, 3.8% higher than a year earlier. In England, the average was £1,466, up 4.0%.
The pace of rental growth has eased from the exceptional increases seen in previous years, but affordability remains a challenge in many locations.
Choice remains limited
Rental availability remains under pressure. Zoopla reports 3% fewer homes available to rent than a year ago, with the flow of new rental properties coming to market down 6%. There are around 5.3 enquiries for every available rental property.
For anyone beginning a home search, well-presented properties in popular locations can therefore still attract considerable interest.
London remains competitive
In Greater London, Rightmove recorded an average advertised asking rent of £2,825 per month in Q3 2026, 3.2% higher than a year earlier. Available rental listings were 9% lower year on year while renter demand was 6% higher.
Outside London, the average advertised asking rent reached £1,418 per month, with annual growth of 2.4%.
One market? Not really.
National figures provide a useful overview, but they don’t tell the whole story.
At Spencer How, we continue to see just how much rental conditions can vary between locations and property types. The reality for someone searching for a family home in London, the Home Counties or one of the UK’s regional cities can be very different.
Budget, commute, schools, property type and exact location can all have a significant impact on both availability and value.
What does this mean if you’re planning a move?
Preparation continues to matter.
Before beginning a home search, it helps to be clear about:
Budget: Allow for rent, Council Tax and other ongoing housing costs.
Location: Be clear about where you need to be and where there may be some flexibility.
Priorities: Separate the essentials from the nice-to-haves.
Timing: Good properties can move quickly, so being ready to make an informed decision matters.
Referencing: Have identity, employment and financial information ready in advance.
The aim isn’t to rush into a property. It is to be prepared enough to act confidently when the right one comes along.
Looking ahead
Zoopla expects UK rental growth to reach around 4% to 5% by the end of 2026 if recent supply pressures continue.
For anyone relocating over the coming months, understanding conditions in the specific area you are moving to is far more useful than relying on national averages alone.
Sources and further reading
Market information is correct at the time of publication. Rental prices and availability vary significantly by location, property type and individual circumstances.
