UK rent prices have surged significantly over the past three years, with the average monthly cost rising by £221, according to new research from property platform Zoopla. This 21% increase has placed considerable financial strain on renters across the country, prompting lifestyle changes, delayed homeownership plans, and increased parental support for adult children.
As of spring 2025, the average rent now stands at £1,283 per month. The hike mirrors a similar increase in monthly mortgage repayments, which have gone up by about £218 over the same timeframe. This dual rise highlights the ongoing financial pressure on both renters and aspiring homeowners.
The rental crisis has begun to shape major life decisions for many. Neysa Killeen, a 26-year-old musical theatre performer, had to turn down a job offer in Dublin due to unaffordable rent. Even after relocating to northern England, she faces similar struggles. Despite her efforts to stay active in fringe theatre, she is considering another move to keep up with rent costs. Neysa expressed frustration at missing out on opportunities not because of skill or passion, but because of housing expenses.
Many young adults are turning to their parents for help. Karen, a mother who contacted the BBC through its “Your Voice” platform, described how she and her husband have been financially supporting their son, a working graduate and father. While they’ve been able to help so far, Karen admitted the arrangement is not sustainable as she approaches retirement.
Experts say this parental support is becoming increasingly common. Lucian Cook of Savills noted that more parents are acting as guarantors, while others are helping informally. Aneisha Beveridge from Hamptons added that many young adults are now staying at home longer due to high rental costs.
Despite the overall upward trend, rent increases have begun to slow or even reverse in some cities. According to Zoopla, annual rent growth for new tenancies dropped from 6.4% last year to 2.8% as of April 2025. In cities such as Leeds, Dundee, and parts of London, rents have even declined slightly. However, in smaller towns and suburban areas around major cities—like Wigan, Blackburn, Chester, Carlisle, and Motherwell—rents continue to rise rapidly, with annual increases exceeding 8%.
Although homeowners have also faced increasing costs, particularly due to higher mortgage rates, their housing situations differ. Homeowners are more likely to occupy larger homes and reduce debt with each payment. Renters, meanwhile, often live in smaller properties and must contend with rising costs without building equity.
While house prices have remained relatively steady, rising only 4% over the past three years, this stability has not translated into greater access for first-time buyers. Rising rents and large deposit requirements continue to block many from entering the housing market. Neysa said that among her peers, the idea of buying a home simply isn’t discussed anymore—it’s no longer seen as a realistic goal.
The government has announced a permanent extension of the mortgage guarantee scheme to support first-time buyers and has also committed to simplifying mortgage rules. One proposal is to allow prospective buyers to use proof of rent payments in affordability checks—an idea welcomed by renters like Stefania Calhoun. A 41-year-old mother, Stefania said she isn’t looking for extravagance, just a modest home to call her own and pass on to her children.
However, some renters have no plans to buy, either by choice or necessity. Richard Donnell, Zoopla’s executive director of research, said many lower- and middle-income households with limited savings will remain renters. He emphasized that this demographic still faces strong competition for properties and limited ability to relocate, which often results in even higher costs. He urged policymakers to focus on expanding the supply of affordable rental housing to provide more options and stability for these households.
As rent prices continue to reshape lives, delay milestones, and deepen financial dependence, the UK’s housing market stands at a crossroads. Without meaningful interventions to increase affordable rental stock and support first-time buyers, many Britons may find long-term housing security increasingly out of reach.
