Average private rents in Plymouth have surged by over 30% in five years, reaching £975 per month in March 2026, according to Office for National Statistics data. The rise from £740 in March 2021 has deepened a housing crisis, with a charity warning that low-income residents are increasingly priced out.
Victoria Allen, CEO of Plymouth Access to Housing, said: "It's really hard at the moment – particularly for people who are on low incomes. There is a definite shortage of supply of genuinely affordable housing for people."
Over 7,000 people are on the Devon Home Choice waiting list for social housing. Allen noted that rents have escalated while wages stagnate amid the cost-of-living crisis, creating intense competition for affordable rentals.
In response, Plymouth City Council is backing a regeneration plan to build more than 10,000 homes in the city centre – the largest redevelopment since post-WWII reconstruction. However, some residents remain skeptical.
Jenni Massey, a healthcare worker, recalled that rent was manageable five or six years ago but now, with rising food and energy costs, she doubts new builds will lower prices.
Former landlord Sian Ridpath, who rented properties for 20 years, said changes like the Renters' Rights Act have reduced incentives for landlords, shrinking the private rental supply.
With local elections approaching on 7 May, political leaders are proposing different visions. Labour leader Tudor Evans pushes for city centre densification, while Conservative leader Andy Lugger cautions about infrastructure needs. Reform's Steve Ricketts advocates a balanced mix of housing, retail, and offices, and the Green Party's Lauren McLay demands stronger affordability measures.
The crisis underscores a growing divide between housing costs and incomes, leaving many residents struggling to secure a home.