Despite COVID restrictions, the UK is experiencing a surge in demand for rental properties in almost all regions, according to the February 2021 Index from SpareRoom, which shows double digit increases in demand, compared to the same period in 2020, in dozens of UK towns and cities. The notable exception is London, where demand is down by up to 43%.

Despite a global pandemic and multiple lockdowns, renters are still moving – and all key towns and cities in the country (bar London) are seeing increased demand. Ipswich (86%), Warrington (84%) and Northampton (82%) lead the way, showing that it’s not simply a case of renters moving out of London to nearby commuter towns, but a wider demand surge across the country.

According to the Index, the West Central region of London has seen the biggest decrease in demand – down by 43% year-on-year, with East Central close behind at -39%. Even East London, the capital’s traditional hotbed for young renters, has seen a drop of 19% compared to 2020.

SpareRoom stated: ‘The boom in demand outside of the capital illustrates a potentially more permanent shift in how we live and work. It’s no longer essential for people to live in London to work in some industries, so the rise of remote working has given renters the chance to move to cheaper towns and cities.’