Your trusted update from Plymouth’s local property experts 🏡
Plymouth’s rental market continues to show resilience as the sector adjusts to the introduction of the Renters’ Rights Act, with strong demand, rising rents, and no clear signs yet of the landlord exodus many predicted. While the market is evolving, Plymouth remains one of the South West’s most accessible and attractive rental locations 📈
🔹 The Renters’ Rights Act arrives – The biggest talking point this month is the implementation of Phase One of the Renters’ Rights Act from 1st May. While concerns around landlord exits have dominated headlines, the anticipated large-scale departure from the sector has yet to materialise.
🔹 Landlords largely holding firm – Despite increasing numbers of homes coming to market for sale nationally and locally, landlords in Plymouth appear, for now at least, to be staying put. The city currently has 17% more homes for sale than this time last year, which may suggest some landlords are reviewing their position, but no significant shift is evident at ground level.
🔹 Rental growth remains strong – National rents have risen by 5.3% over the last 12 months, with the South West seeing growth of around 4%. Plymouth, however, is outperforming both, with rental values seeing significant upward movement over the past year.
🔹 Plymouth continues to stand out – The city’s average rent currently sits at approximately £914 PCM, remaining below both regional and national averages. This affordability continues to support strong tenant demand across a broad mix of demographics.
🔹 Context matters on rental growth – Plymouth has seen rental growth of around 29% year on year, but this figure requires careful context. Rents softened through parts of 2025 before rebounding strongly from September onwards, suggesting part of this increase reflects market correction rather than unsustainable acceleration.
🔹 Affordability still matters – While rental growth has been strong, there are natural limits to what tenants can afford. Long-term market stability will continue to rely on realistic pricing and maintaining strong tenant demand.
🔹 Opportunities remain for landlords – For investors and landlords, Plymouth continues to offer an attractive proposition. Relative affordability, consistent demand, and rental values still sitting below the wider South West average point to continued opportunity in the city.
🔹 Market outlook – The outlook remains positive but measured. The rental market continues to adapt to legislative change, but current fundamentals suggest a market that remains active, resilient, and well-positioned as we move through 2026.
📊 Whether you’re a landlord, tenant, or investor, understanding local rental trends is essential for making informed decisions in today’s changing market.
📖 View the full lettings report here 👇
