Rightmove Reveals! The highest rent markets outside of London

New analysis from Rightmove reveals that St Albans is the most expensive city to rent outside London.

Tenants in the Hertfordshire city pay an average of £2,307 per calendar month (pcm), 71% above the UK average. 

The data comes as students prepare to start the new academic year, highlighting the increase in rental price growth across university cities nationwide. 

The most expensive area contrasts with Carlisle, which has the lowest rental prices in Great Britain, with an average rent of £791 pcm, 41% below the national average. 

The average advertised rent outside London is now a record £1,349 pcm. The annual rate of growth now stands at 5%, an easing of the 12% peak recorded in 2022.  

Rightmove’s property expert, Tim Bannister, says: “The rental divide across Great Britain is clear, with an average difference of just over £1,500 between the most expensive and cheapest cities. 

“Many of these cities have seen rental growth of over 40% over the past five years, meaning it’s likely to be a significant consideration when students are thinking about where to study, and those who have already graduated working out if they can afford to stay in that city and find a job.” 

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