Summer rental hotspots: Britain’s most competitive markets
Rightmove’s latest data shows northern England, especially Merseyside’s Wallasey and Birkenhead, as the most sought-after rental markets over the summer. Scotland leads the country in overall competition, while the national average of inquiries per listing has fallen from a 2022 peak. The report hi…
By Felo News Desk · Published
During the peak summer months of July and August, the UK rental market saw a surge in competition, with certain towns and regions standing out as the most sought‑after. Rightmove’s analysis of 1,000 locations across Britain revealed that the north of England, particularly Merseyside, was the hottest spot for prospective tenants, while Scotland recorded the highest overall level of competition nationwide.
Wallasey and Birkenhead lead the pack
In Merseyside’s Wirral Peninsula, the towns of Wallasey and Birkenhead dominated the data, each attracting an average of 30 inquiries for every available rental listing. This figure is more than double the national average of 11 inquiries per property during the same period. The high demand is reflected in the average advertised rents of £975 and £874 respectively, placing these towns among the most expensive in the north.
Both towns also feature prominently on Rightmove’s list of the top ten most competitive locations, underscoring the intensity of the market. The strong interest is likely driven by a combination of desirable location, good transport links to Liverpool and Manchester, and a relatively limited supply of new rental stock.
Carlisle and other northern hotspots
Carlisle in Cumbria rounded out the top three, with 29 inquiries per available property on average. Other northern towns such as Prenton (27 inquiries) and Chorlton‑cum‑Hardy in Manchester (22 inquiries) also showed high levels of competition. These figures suggest that the north‑west of England, in particular, remains a magnet for renters seeking quality homes.
Scotland tops the national competition chart
Across Scotland, the average number of inquiries per listing was 19, the highest figure in Great Britain. Glasgow, with an average of 28 inquiries, and East Kilbride, with 27, were the most competitive cities in the country. The high demand in Scotland is mirrored by relatively high average rents, with Glasgow’s average advertised rent at £1,181 and East Kilbride’s at £1,049.
Scotland’s overall competition level is attributed to a strong rental market and a limited supply of new properties. The data also shows that the north‑west of England follows closely behind with an average of 16 inquiries per listing.
National trends and what they mean for renters
Across the UK, the average number of inquiries per available rental property fell to 11 during July and August, down from 12 a year earlier and a sharp decline from the 28‑inquiry peak seen in the same period in 2022. Rightmove notes that July and August are traditionally the busiest months for the rental market, meaning that these figures are likely to be representative of the national summer demand.
Colleen Babcock, a property expert at Rightmove, explained that while the overall supply of rentals has rebounded compared with previous years, certain areas still experience high levels of competition. She added that renters should start their search early and be ready with all necessary information to improve their chances of securing a property.
Aneisha Beveridge, research director at Connells Group, highlighted that the rental market is following a similar trend to house prices over the last decade, with lower‑cost areas in the north outperforming the south and narrowing the historic divide.
What happens next?
Rightmove’s study does not predict future trends, but the data suggests that competition will remain high in the most sought‑after northern towns and in Scotland. Renters who are flexible with their location or willing to consider smaller towns may find more availability. Landlords and letting agents are advised to streamline their processes and provide quick responses to inquiries to capture the best prospects.
For now, the key takeaway is that prospective tenants need to act fast and be prepared. Those who wait until the last minute risk missing out on the most desirable properties in the most competitive markets.
Key facts
- Wallasey and Birkenhead average 30 inquiries per listing
- Scotland leads national competition with 19 inquiries per property
- National average inquiries fell from 28 in 2022 to 11 this summer
- Northern towns like Carlisle and Prenton also highly competitive
- Renters should start early and be fully prepared to secure a home
Why it matters
The report highlights the intense competition in key rental markets, guiding renters to act swiftly and informing landlords about the demand landscape.
Frequently asked questions
What does an inquiry per listing mean?
It refers to the average number of prospective tenants who contact a letting agent to view a property for rent.
Why is July and August the busiest period?
These months align with the start of the academic year and many people are looking for new homes before the summer ends.
