Average rents have stabilised but sharp regional variations continue to define the UK market according to Propertymark.

Of those areas showing growth, Scotland led the way with average rents rising 4.95% to £1,123, while Northern Ireland saw a 3.99% uplift to £887.

But London recorded a 1.5% fall in average rents to £2,193, while the West Midlands remained unchanged month-on-month. 

There were also declines in the North East, South West and East Midlands.

The letting agents’ trade body says this all suggests we’re in a market shaped by local factors, not a single national trend.

Affordability also remains mixed, with the average salary required to rent differing widely across the UK.

In Wales, the typical household income required to rent increased to £31,320, while Northern Ireland saw a 5.94% drop to £26,610. 

Unsurprisingly, London remains the least affordable region, requiring an average household income of £65,790.

Megan Eighteen, president of ARLA Propertymark, says: “The rental market remains dynamic across many regions when viewed on a month-by-month basis. 

“Price fluctuations are driven by a range of factors, including the volume and type of properties available at any given time, as well as local employment opportunities and their influence on demand. 

“Together, these elements shape how consumers assess their options.

“Overall, rental inflation has been slowing since late 2024 on a year-on-year basis. However, looking ahead, it is important to consider ongoing global uncertainty and the potential impact this may have on the UK economy in the short to medium term, particularly in relation to household affordability.

“At present, it is still too early to determine the future direction of the rental market. 

“A wide range of variables remain in play, including the full impact of recent legislative changes, which has yet to be realised, alongside broader economic pressures that have not yet fully filtered down to consumers.”