In February, average rents rose in the UK, but voids were shorter in all regions. This suggests collectively, some signs point to an increasing demand for tenants as they head into spring, according to the latest Good Road Rental Index.
February brought a 4% increase in rents compared to the previous year. The UK rent is on average £1,209 in real estate compared to £1,162 in February 2024. This shows that rental prices have slowed slightly compared to January 2025.
The biggest rental increase in February compared to the previous year is seen in the West Midlands, where prices are up 7% compared to February 2024 (up from £934 to £1,000).
The smallest annual increase was recorded in the East Midlands, with rent rising at a relatively modest 2.5% (from £992 to £1,018).
In February, rents rose monthly. Prices rose slightly from £1,207 to £1,209 on average.
This may be an early indicator that we are for another summer of a significant rent increase.
East Midlands recorded the biggest monthly rent rise, with prices rising 3% (from £987 to £1,018 to £1,018) followed by 2% (from £1,320 to £1,350 to £1,350).
However, no increase was seen overall. In some areas, rents fell slightly in February. Greater London, Northeast and Northwest all saw slight declines in rental averages.
After hitting the length recorded in January, the void – the length of time the property is free between residents – headed down again in February, with all areas being monitored and the voids reduced.
Boyds have been reduced from the 20 days (down 17%) in February from the average 24 days in January. This is the lowest void length recorded since October 2024.
However, the average 20 days in February 2025 remains higher than the previous year. In February 2024, Boyd sat on average for 18 days.
Good Road CEO William Reeve commented: After a record length in January, the Boyd was reduced again.
“And while overall rents in February are only slightly higher than the January figures, they don't always increase to the month at this time of year. These are strong signs that the PRS will continue to heat up with the weather.”