New research has unveiled the most affordable cities in the UK for both renters and landlords, with some unexpected locations emerging as top contenders. The study provides valuable insights for those looking to rent or invest in property across the country.
The Rental Affordability Index
The comprehensive analysis examined key factors including average rental prices, property yields for landlords, and overall living costs. The results paint a fascinating picture of the UK's rental market landscape.
Top Cities for Renters
For tenants seeking value, several cities stand out with surprisingly low rental costs relative to average incomes:
- Bradford leads as the most affordable option
- Hull offers exceptional value for money
- Stoke-on-Trent combines low rents with good amenities
Best Locations for Landlords
Property investors will find these cities particularly attractive due to strong rental yields:
- Liverpool tops the list for landlord returns
- Manchester continues to offer excellent investment potential
- Newcastle provides a balanced market for buy-to-let
Regional Variations
The research highlights significant differences between northern and southern cities, with the north generally offering better affordability. However, some southern locations still present good value when considering local wages and employment opportunities.
Experts suggest that these findings could influence migration patterns as remote working becomes more established, allowing people greater flexibility in choosing where to live based on affordability rather than proximity to workplaces.
