Bristol, South Gloucestershire and North Somerset Lettings Market and Rental Yields
Latest lettings update
There are currently 5,562 properties available to rent in Bristol which is 97.5% higher than a year ago. 64.8% of homes listed to rent in the past 12 months were flats.
Properties rented in the last month had been on the market for an average of 18 days which is 20.2% longer than a year ago.
Average Monthly Rent
Over the last 12 months, the average rent achieved for homes let in Bristol was £1,565 per month. This is a +3.1% change on the previous 12 month period.
67% of homes let in the past 12 months were flats, achieving an average rental value of £1,420 per month. Houses achieved an average rent of £1,936 per month.
Bristol rental market
Bristol mirrors this national trend. Well‑priced properties typically secure tenants within 2-4 weeks, while those positioned above market expectations can take longer. Supply has improved, but not to the extent that it places downward pressure on rents, and demand remains strong - driven by the city’s universities, employment growth and ongoing housing supply constraints.
Bristol Yields
Bristol’s average gross rental yield is around 6.0% in early 2026, outperforming many major UK cities where yields typically sit below 5%.
Yields vary widely across the city, with districts such as BS16 and BS34 achieving up to 8-8.5%, (student accommodation) while more premium areas often fall closer to 4-5%.
High‑demand neighbourhoods like Easton and Fishponds continue to deliver strong returns, frequently reaching 7-8% gross yields.
Overall, Bristol remains a robust lettings market, with yields consistently outperforming much of the wider South West region.
UK Lettings Market - A More Balanced, Still Resilient Market
The UK lettings market is continuing to stabilise in 2026, with conditions moving toward a more balanced position after several years of intense demand.
Nationally, time to let now averages around 2-3 weeks (circa 17-20 days), reflecting improved choice for tenants and a modest easing in competition. (lettingagentoday)
Supply has strengthened compared with last year, while tenant demand has softened slightly, helping to create a more sustainable and competitive marketplace. However, stock levels remain below pre‑pandemic norms, meaning well‑presented, correctly priced properties continue to let quickly and efficiently. (hometrack.com)
Rental growth has moderated to more sustainable levels - currently around 2–3.5% annually, but remains positive across most regions, underpinned by ongoing structural undersupply and continued demand. (ONS), (zoopla.co.uk)
Overall, the lettings market remains robust. The shift toward balance is creating a healthier environment for both landlords and tenants, while continued demand and limited supply ensure rental values are well supported across the UK.
