Rental prices across the UK showed mixed regional movement in March, with some areas recording increases while others saw monthly declines, according to Propertymark’s latest rental price and salary tracker.
In Scotland, average agreed rents rose by 4.95% month-on-month to £1,123, while Northern Ireland recorded a 3.99% increase to £887.
In contrast, London saw average rents fall by around 1.5% to £2,193, while the West Midlands remained unchanged over the period.
The data also highlighted regional variation in affordability, with the average household salary required to rent increasing in some areas and falling in others.
In Wales, the typical salary needed rose from £29,970 to £31,320 year-on-year, while in Northern Ireland it declined from £28,290 to £26,610.
Across the UK, rental prices and salary requirements continue to diverge by region, with some areas tracking closer to inflation while others show more pronounced variation.
In March, London remained the most expensive region, with average rents of £2,193 and a required household income of £65,790.
This compares to £862 in the North East, where the required income stood at £25,860.
Month-on-month data showed declines in several regions, including the North East (-5.07%), East Midlands (-4.67%) and South West (-4.59%), while more modest increases were recorded in the East of England (0.30%) and Wales (0.10%).
Megan Eighteen, president of ARLA Propertymark, said: “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.”
She added: “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.”