Private renters in England are spending a growing share of their income on rent, according to the latest figures from the Office for National Statistics (ONS).

In the financial year ending 2024, the average renter in England used 36.3% of their household income to cover rent—well above the 30% affordability benchmark that many experts regard as sustainable. By comparison, renters in Wales and Northern Ireland spent 25.9% and 25.3% of their income respectively.

England’s Rental Market Under Pressure

The ONS data underlines a long-running affordability squeeze in England. While affordability has shifted up and down since 2016, England has consistently stayed above the 30% threshold, unlike Wales and Northern Ireland, which have remained below it.

Although household incomes in all three nations generally grew faster than rents from 2016 to 2021, the trend has now reversed. Since 2021, rents have risen more sharply than wages in Wales and Northern Ireland, while in England the gap between the two has narrowed—keeping many renters under pressure.

Regional Differences

The figures also highlight sharp contrasts across the country:

• London is the least affordable region, with renters spending 41.6% of their household income on average.

• The North East remains the most affordable, where rents account for just 19.8% of income.

At a local level, affordability varies even more dramatically. Out of 316 local authorities in England and Wales, 68.7% had average rents below the affordability threshold.

• Hartlepool was the most affordable local authority, with rents taking up just 15.9% of household income.

• At the other end of the scale, Kensington and Chelsea remained the most expensive, with rents swallowing an eye-watering 74.3% of income.

Expert Reactions

Industry experts warn that affordability pressures are reshaping the rental market.

Richard Donnell, Executive Director at Zoopla, explained:

“The affordability of renting has worsened in 2024 as rapid growth in rents has outpaced the increase in household incomes. Strong demand for rented homes, driven by higher migration for work and study, combined with elevated mortgage rates, has fuelled demand, while the supply of rental homes has barely grown in a decade.”

He added that while rent inflation has slowed to **2.7%—the lowest in four years—**only a significant increase in supply will ease long-term pressure on tenants.

Megan Eighteen, President of ARLA Propertymark, also highlighted the impact of rising mortgage costs and regulatory pressures on landlords:

“Affordability has tightened across the UK due to rising living costs and increased landlord expenses. With the average UK rent now at £1,344, tenants would need an annual salary of around £40,320 to qualify for a home at this price. Investment from reliable landlords is essential if we are to meet housing demand, but this requires greater support from government.”

What This Means for Renters

For many households, particularly in England’s major cities, rent continues to eat up a significant share of income. While slower rent growth offers some relief, the fundamental imbalance between demand and supply remains a defining challenge in the UK’s rental sector.

At Boydens, we recognise how these pressures affect individuals, families, and communities across Essex and Suffolk. Our local experts are here to provide clear, honest advice—whether you’re renting, letting, or considering your next move.

👉 If you’re navigating today’s rental market, get in touch with your local Boydens branch. Our team can help you find the right home and guide you through your options with confidence.