The city boasts a 78 per cent tenant satisfaction rate, with 29,411 properties in the city rented out.
The high demand is driven by 46,250 university students and a strong local economy, with 53 per cent of residents renting, according to Property Investments UK’s research.
This percentage placed it alongside Salford, Liverpool, Leicester, and London as some of the most renter-heavy cities in the UK.
Only in Cambridge, Nottingham, Norwich, and Manchester are a higher percentage of properties rented out.
However, homeownership is out of reach for many due in Oxford to high costs, with the average property costing £549,581.
Real estate experts at Property Investments UK said: “Oxford’s high tenant satisfaction highlights the importance of quality living conditions and community appeal in driving rental demand.
“For investors, this creates opportunities in markets where renters are likely to stay longer and maintain properties well.”
Manchester ranks as the top city for renters in 2025, with 133,126 rented properties, equivalent to 62 per cent of households renting.
The real estate experts added: “Manchester’s appeal as a rental hotspot lies in its dynamic mix of culture, connectivity, and opportunity.
“The city’s extensive transport network, thriving university scene, and vibrant social atmosphere make it incredibly attractive to renters, particularly young professionals and students.”