Best Rental Yields in the UK: Top Cities and Regions for Property Investment in 2024
For property investors, rental yield is one of the most important factors when choosing where to buy. A strong rental yield ensures a good return on investment (ROI) and can make the difference between a profitable property portfolio and a costly venture. In this guide, we explore the best areas in the UK for high rental yields in 2024, examining the cities and regions that offer excellent opportunities for both seasoned investors and newcomers.
What is Rental Yield?
Rental yield refers to the annual return on investment from rental income, expressed as a percentage of the property’s value. It helps investors assess the profitability of a buy-to-let property. There are two key types of rental yields to consider:
- Gross Rental Yield: This is the rental income before any costs, such as maintenance, property management, or mortgage payments, are deducted.
- Net Rental Yield: This takes into account all operating expenses, offering a more realistic view of the property’s profitability.
To calculate gross rental yield, divide the annual rental income by the property’s purchase price and multiply by 100:
(Annual Rental Income ÷ Property Price) × 100 = Gross Rental Yield
Investors typically aim for yields between 5-7%, but yields above 7% are considered particularly strong.
Top UK Locations for the Best Rental Yields in 2024
The UK’s property market is varied, with different cities and regions offering unique investment opportunities. Below are some of the best areas for rental yields in the UK, based on current data and projections for 2024.
1. Manchester – Northern Powerhouse for Property Investors
- Average Rental Yield: 6-8%
- Key Areas: Salford, Ancoats, and MediaCityUK
- Why Invest? Manchester remains one of the most lucrative property investment destinations in the UK. The city benefits from ongoing regeneration, a thriving business hub, and a large student population. Areas like Salford and MediaCityUK offer particularly strong yields, driven by high demand from young professionals and students. The city's robust transport links and growing economy make it a reliable location for consistent rental returns.
2. Liverpool – High Yields and Affordable Properties
- Average Rental Yield: 7-9%
- Key Areas: L1 (City Centre), Kensington, Bootle
- Why Invest? Liverpool consistently ranks as one of the best cities for rental yields in the UK. Its combination of affordable property prices and high demand for rental accommodation makes it ideal for investors looking to maximise returns. Areas like L1 and Kensington have seen substantial regeneration and offer strong yields, particularly from students and young professionals attracted by the city’s universities and growing business sector.
3. Nottingham – A Growing Investment Hotspot
- Average Rental Yield: 6-8%
- Key Areas: NG1 (City Centre), Lenton, Beeston
- Why Invest? Nottingham has emerged as a key player in the UK’s buy-to-let market, offering strong yields and a high demand for rental properties. The city is home to two large universities, which creates a steady stream of student renters. Areas such as Lenton and Beeston are particularly popular among investors, thanks to a mix of affordable properties and consistent tenant demand.
4. Glasgow – Affordable Prices with Strong Returns
- Average Rental Yield: 6-8%
- Key Areas: G3 (Finnieston), G31 (Dennistoun), G12 (West End)
- Why Invest? Glasgow offers some of the highest rental yields in Scotland, particularly in areas like Finnieston and Dennistoun, where demand for rental properties is booming. The city’s growing tech and financial sectors have attracted young professionals, while its universities ensure strong demand from students. The relatively affordable property prices in comparison to Edinburgh make Glasgow a favourite for investors seeking high yields.
5. Leeds – A Thriving Northern City
- Average Rental Yield: 6-7%
- Key Areas: LS6 (Headingley), LS2 (City Centre), LS9 (East End)
- Why Invest? Leeds is another strong contender for high rental yields, with significant investment in the city driving demand for rental properties. The city's financial and tech sectors are growing rapidly, attracting professionals who prefer renting in central areas like LS2. With affordable house prices and a large student population, Leeds offers excellent potential for buy-to-let investors, particularly in areas like Headingley.
6. Birmingham – Booming City with Regeneration Zones
- Average Rental Yield: 5-7%
- Key Areas: B1 (City Centre), Digbeth, Edgbaston
- Why Invest? As the UK’s second-largest city, Birmingham offers great potential for property investors. The city is undergoing extensive regeneration, including projects like HS2, which is expected to boost demand for rental properties. Birmingham’s large student population, coupled with the growth of its business district, makes it a promising location for steady rental yields.
7. Sheffield – Steady Growth and Affordable Entry Prices
- Average Rental Yield: 5-7%
- Key Areas: S1 (City Centre), S10 (Broomhill), Crookes
- Why Invest? Sheffield is a city on the rise, with growing demand for rental accommodation from both students and professionals. The city’s two universities ensure a steady supply of tenants, while areas like Broomhill and Crookes offer attractive yields and affordable property prices. The local government’s commitment to regeneration is also boosting investor confidence in Sheffield’s long-term growth potential.
8. Edinburgh – Consistent Demand in a Capital City
- Average Rental Yield: 5-6%
- Key Areas: EH8 (Holyrood), Leith, New Town
- Why Invest? Edinburgh’s property market is more expensive compared to other cities on this list, but it offers steady rental yields due to high demand from professionals, students, and tourists. Leith and Holyrood are particularly popular with investors, thanks to their proximity to the city centre and universities. While yields are slightly lower here, the capital’s stability makes it a strong long-term investment.
How Fraser Bond Can Help You Find the Best Rental Yields
At Fraser Bond, we specialise in identifying the top property investment opportunities in the UK. Our team of expert estate agents and property consultants can help you navigate the market, ensuring you find properties with high rental yields and strong growth potential. Whether you're a first-time investor or looking to expand your portfolio, we offer:
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Comprehensive Market Analysis
We provide up-to-date market insights and data to help you identify the best areas for investment.
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Property Sourcing and Negotiation
Our extensive network allows us to source properties in high-yield areas, and we negotiate on your behalf to secure the best deals.
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End-to-End Property Management
For investors looking to minimise the hassle of managing a rental property, we offer full property management services, ensuring your investment generates consistent returns.
For investors seeking high rental yields, the UK offers numerous opportunities across its major cities and regions. With the right guidance from Fraser Bond, you can maximise your returns and make smart, profitable investments. Contact us today to explore available properties in these high-yield areas and take the next step in your investment journey.
