UK house prices and private rents moved at different annual rates in the latest Office for National Statistics release. The September 2026 bulletin reports rent data to August and house-price data to July. Buyers can use the figures as current context while comparing homes and locations, rather than as a forecast.
UK house prices and private rents in the latest release
Average UK monthly private rent reached £1,400 in August 2026. Annual growth was 3.8%, up from 3.7% in the previous monthly estimate. Meanwhile, average UK house prices reached £273,000 in July 2026, with annual growth of 1.4%.
The figures cover different reporting months. Do not treat them as a like-for-like monthly comparison of buying and renting costs. The ONS September bulletin explains the reference periods and revisions.
What the rent data says
England’s average monthly private rent was £1,459, up 4.0% annually. Wales recorded £846 and annual growth of 4.3%, while Scotland recorded £1,013 and annual growth of 1.1%. Northern Ireland’s available rent data ran to June. It showed an average of £874 and annual growth of 1.6%.
The ONS says the latest UK rent estimates are provisional and it may revise them. Consequently, buyers weighing a move should check local supply, tenancy terms and current asking rents. The national average is useful context, but it does not price a specific street or home.
What the house-price data says
Average July house prices were £293,000 in England. Wales recorded £215,000, while Scotland recorded £196,000. The annual rates were 1.1%, 2.6% and 2.3% respectively. However, incomplete sales information makes the latest UK House Price Index estimates provisional.
Use this release to compare the asking price, condition and tenure of individual homes. Next, use recent local evidence and professional advice when assessing a particular purchase. Trust Point’s London location page and UK property blog provide starting points for broader research.
How buyers can use UK house prices and private rents
First, note each figure’s reporting date. Second, separate national averages from evidence for the neighbourhood and property type. Finally, allow for revisions, transaction costs and the time needed to complete a purchase.
The ONS release is an official snapshot, not a prediction of future prices or rents. Buyers should confirm material assumptions with suitable independent advisers before making a decision.
