Rents have fallen in the North West and Yorkshire & The Humber, in a rare situation where an area has become more affordable for tenants.
In the North West, the average monthly rental share has fallen by £20, from £727 in 2024 to £707 in Q3 2025.
In Yorkshire & Humber, the figure dropped by £24, from £648 to £624.
Gary Barker, chief executive at Canopy, said: “With tenants staying in properties longer and the courts under pressure, the focus must be on securing reliable tenants from the outset. High-quality referencing, backed by Rent & Legal Protection, gives landlords and agents the confidence to protect their income and safeguard tenancies.
“Legislation like the Renters’ Rights Bill is welcome, but it won’t fix affordability or supply challenges alone. Until more homes are built, robust referencing and financial protection remain the most effective way to support both landlords and renters.”
Cities such as Hull, Doncaster and Blackburn now offer rent-to-income ratios below 33%, making them attractive options for renters hoping to build savings and eventually buy.
London is the least affordable. Renters in the capital spend nearly half their income on rent, with seven boroughs now exceeding the 50% threshold. Enfield remains the most unaffordable, with tenants spending 56% of their income on rent.
