The Office for National Statistics (ONS) has published its latest reports on the UK housing market, releasing updated data from the Price Index of Private Rents (PIPR) and the House Price Index (HPI). These closely watched indices track changes in average rental prices and house prices across the United Kingdom, offering key insights into housing affordability, inflation trends, and regional economic performance.
According to the ONS, the PIPR reveals continued upward pressure on rental costs, with average private rents increasing across all UK nations and English regions. The report highlights a persistent supply-demand imbalance, particularly in major urban centres, where demand continues to outstrip available housing stock.
Key Highlights: Private Rents (PIPR)
Average UK monthly private rents increased by 6.7%, reaching £1,344 in the 12 months to June 2025 (provisional estimate). This represents a slight slowdown from 7.0% annual growth in May 2025.
England: Average rents rose to £1,399 (6.7%).
Wales: Rents increased to £804 (8.2%).
Scotland: Rents climbed to £999 (4.4%).
Northern Ireland: Average rents reached £852 (7.6%) in the 12 months to April 2025.
Within England, the North East saw the highest annual rent inflation at 9.7%, while Yorkshire and The Humber recorded the lowest at 3.5%.
Key Highlights: House Prices (HPI)
Average UK house prices rose by 3.9%, reaching £269,000 in the 12 months to May 2025 (provisional estimate), up from 3.6% growth in April 2025.
England: Average house prices increased to £290,000 (3.4%).
Wales: Prices rose to £210,000 (5.1%).
Scotland: Prices climbed to £192,000 (6.4%).
The HPI shows a mixed picture in the housing sales market. While house price growth has slowed in some areas due to higher interest rates and tighter mortgage conditions, other regions—particularly in parts of the North and the Midlands—continue to see moderate price increases. The report attributes these regional differences to varying economic conditions, employment rates, and levels of housing development.
Economists and policymakers closely monitor these indices as indicators of broader economic health and cost-of-living pressures. With inflation still above target and interest rates remaining high, the latest figures from the ONS underscore the ongoing challenges facing renters, homebuyers, and the housing market as a whole.
The full data sets and analysis are available on the ONS website.
