Recent research highlights that private sector tenants living in rural parts of England are enduring the most significant rent increases, far outpacing the national average. This alarming trend raises concerns about the affordability and accessibility of housing in these areas.
Stark Increase in Rural Rents
The study, conducted by the TDS Charitable Foundation, reveals a worrying 27% surge in rental costs for rural tenants over the past year, starkly contrasting with the 17% average increase experienced by renters across England. The TDS Charitable Foundation, committed to educating people about housing rights and responsibilities, surveyed over 2,000 private renters to uncover these insights.
Affordability Crisis Among Renters
The situation paints a bleak picture for many renters, with nearly a third confessing that affording rent each month is now a struggle, if not an impossibility. This burden is particularly heavy on students and those impacted by the stagnation of housing benefit rates, where 40% find it challenging to meet their rental obligations.
Sacrifices Made to Cover Rent
The financial strain extends beyond rent payments, affecting basic living standards. A significant 52% of tenants admit to cutting back on essentials such as food, heating, and clothing to keep up with rent payments. The difficulty also stretches to utility bills, with 40% finding them hard to afford.
Challenges in Finding Suitable Housing
The research highlights that the majority of recent movers into the private rental sector – a striking 82% – faced hurdles in finding appropriate housing. Notably, almost half struggled with finding affordable options, and one in five found the required deposit to be a financial barrier.
Dwindling Dreams of Homeownership
This financial pressure has a profound impact on renters’ aspirations, with many losing hope of ever owning a home. While 44% express a desire to own a property, a significant 35% have resigned themselves to the likelihood of renting for the majority of their lives.
Expert Insights
Dr. Jennifer Harris, head of policy and research at TDS Group, underscores the gravity of these findings. She notes that while the unfreezing of housing benefit rates may offer some relief, it is insufficient to address the broader challenges renters face. Dr. Harris calls for a comprehensive strategy from all political parties to enhance affordability and maintain the supply of private rental housing in light of soaring demand.