Rents, affordability, and housing insecurity

This week the Office for National Statistics released data* showing that the South West has the least affordable rents outside of London. In particular, they stated, "the least affordable LAs [Local Authorities] outside London were urban centres such as Bristol [etc.]"

It supports our view that systemic causes drive housing insecurity and homelessness. Rising rents, which often outpace increases in salary. In Bristol, the figures for 2024 compiled by the ONS reveal that, on average, 44.6% of a person's gross salary is spent on rent. For reference, the ONS regard 30% of gross income spent on rent being affordable. You can compare areas in the following map:

This unacceptable reality is something we see in the experience of the people that Caring in Bristol supports through its prevention and youth projects. Read our response to this in an article on the Bristol 24/7 website, as well as the ONS report for a deep dive into the statistical findings.

*Citation: Office for National Statistics (ONS), released 18 August 2025, ONS website, statistical bulletin, Private rental affordability, England, Wales and Northern Ireland: 2024

If you are worried about your housing situation, including rent increases, you can find sources of support in our Housing Support Handbook. As always, the sooner you get help, the better the outcome is likely to be.

Housing Support Handbook

A tool for anyone facing money worries or housing problems in Bristol, with information on housing, finances, employment, immigration, food and wellbeing. 2025 updated edition. Created by our Early Doors service.

DOWNLOAD HOUSING SUPPORT HANDBOOK 2025