Capital hits £2,339 pcm rent as rent rises continue across UK
The average UK rent is now £1,384 per calendar month, according to the latest quarterly insights report from Lomond. It marks a rise from £1,245 for the first three months of 2025.
London rents were 69% higher than the UK average at £2,339 pcm, but Kent saw the largest jump in monthly rents for the quarter, up 9% from the same quarter a year before to £1,031 pcm.
In the North West and Yorkshire, average rents increased by 4% and 5% respectively in the first quarter of 2026. In Manchester, rents averaged £1,101 pcm while Yorkshire’s regional average sat at £949pcm. Cities like Leeds and Sheffield continue to witness strong tenant demand.
In the Midlands average rents increased by +3% to £990pcm, while in the south of England rents rose 2% to £1,309pcm. In Scotland average rents rose 3% to £1,137pcm.
Viewings and letting appraisals see strong growth too
Although fallout had been expected following the Renters’ Rights Act coming into force in May, Lomond’s figures showed that activity remained strong during the first quarter. Viewings were up 28% compared to the previous quarter and letting appraisals also rose, with a 62% increase on the quarter before.
Ed Phillips, group chief executive of Lomond, said: “The UK rental market has carried strong momentum through the year so far, with rents continuing to rise across both major cities and more rural locations, reflecting resilient and growing demand in many parts of the country.
“The increase in viewings, alongside a rise in letting appraisals, is particularly encouraging, showing that tenant demand remains strong while landlords continue to assess opportunities in an increasingly competitive market.”
“As the year progresses, the balance between supply and demand will remain a defining factor. For landlords, that presents clear opportunity, but success will depend on understanding the nuances of local market conditions.”