UK rents see upward trend in early 2026
- Lomond’s report finds UK average rents rise to £1,384pcm in the first three months of 2026, compared to 2025.
- Average rent in London reaches £2,339pcm, 69% higher than the UK average.
- Kent records the network’s highest rental uptick of +9%, in early 2026.
- Tenant demand strengthens with a +28% increase in viewings activity in 2026.
Lomond observed the average rent across its network of lettings agencies increase from £1,245 to £1,384 per calendar month (pcm) in the first three months of the year, compared to 2025, according to a new report released today.
Despite regional variations, this overall uptick demonstrates the continued strength and fundamentals of the rental market underpinned by demand for rented accommodation in the wake of regulation changes.
Lomond, the UK’s leading network of lettings and sales agents, has today released its latest Quarterly Insights Report, revealing that the UK rental market opened the year with widespread steady growth, as it prepared for the implementation of the first phase of the Renters’ Rights Act, which took place from 1st May.
London maintains its command of a significant premium, with average rents now standing at £2,339pcm, a staggering 69% higher than the UK average. Despite demand surging across the regions, the capital city continues to hold firm with both the suburban and inner-city markets of London remaining stable.
The ever popular ‘Garden of England’ saw the highest rise in average rents at the start of 2026, with Kent’s monthly rents jumping by +9% to £1,031pcm, reflecting its continued popularity amongst both London commuters and those seeking more space without losing connectivity to the city.
The North West and Yorkshire saw average rents increase by +4% and +5% respectively throughout Q1 of 2026. Manchester continues to be one of the UK’s most popular regions for renters, especially with the growing population of young professionals, with rents currently averaging at £1,101pcm. Yorkshire’s regional average sits at £949pcm, with cities such as Leeds and Sheffield continuing to experience strong tenant demand, particularly for well-located homes, close to good schools and amenities.
Average rents increased by +3% to £990pcm in the Midlands, with affordability remaining a key draw for tenants relocating from more expensive regions, helping to support consistent, sustainable growth.
Meanwhile, the South of England saw rents rise by +2% to £1,309pcm. Coastal towns and cities continue to appeal to renters looking for a lively lifestyle with the added benefits of seaside living, and within a realistic commute to London for hybrid working. Scotland, not subject to the changes implemented by the Renters’ Rights Act, recorded a sustainable increase, with average rents rising by +3% to £1,137pcm.
Despite the anticipation of the Renters’ Rights Act coming into force, tenant and agent activity levels remained strong throughout Q1, with viewings up +28% compared to the previous quarter and letting appraisals up +62% quarter-on-quarter, underlining the continued intensity of competition among renters and strength in the industry.
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.”
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