Editor's note: This brief was summarised by The Property AI Newsroom from a report by Mortgage Solutions. Read the original article for full details.

ONS: UK Private Rent Growth Stalls in June as Regional Trends Diverge

The latest figures from the Office for National Statistics (ONS) show that the average monthly private rent in the UK rose by 3.3% annually to £1,388 in June 2026, matching the growth rate seen in the year to May. The data indicates that the pace of private rental growth has been slowing in recent months.

For letting agents and inventory clerks, these figures highlight a stabilising rental market, with average asking rents remaining at record highs but growth rates levelling off. The ONS data provides a detailed breakdown of regional trends across the UK.

Regional Rental Growth

Wales recorded the strongest annual rental growth, with average rents rising by 4.9% to £843. In England, average rents increased by 3.4% to £1,446, while Scotland saw a 1.3% rise to £1,012. The most recent data for Northern Ireland, covering the year to April, showed a 2.9% increase in average private rents to £877.

Within England, the North East experienced the highest annual rent inflation at 6.3%, reaching an average of £781. Despite this, the North East remains the region with the lowest average rent. London had the lowest rate of annual growth at 2.2%, but continued to have the highest average rent at £2,302.

Market Activity and Supply

The report notes that activity in the rental market has remained robust, with solid rental levels supported by a lack of supply. This shortage is partly attributed to landlords selling properties, influenced by tax and regulatory concerns. The data also highlights that demand remains strong, but there is a noted shortage of better-quality tenants.

Analysis referenced in the report suggests that one in five rental properties have left the market over the past decade, despite continued tenant demand. The importance of maintaining a healthy supply of rental homes is emphasised as a priority for keeping the market accessible for renters and attractive for long-term investment.