Manchester is more than just a northern powerhouse – it’s a thriving rental hotspot that continues to lead the UK property conversation. With a vibrant city centre, excellent transport links, world-class universities, and a booming job market, the lettings sector in Manchester has entered summer 2025 in full force.
In this update from Hunters Manchester, we break down what’s driving the market, where the demand is, and how both landlords and tenants can make the most of it.
A thriving lettings market that shows no signs of slowing
As of summer 2025, average monthly rents in Manchester are sitting at approximately £1,321, a figure that represents a 10.2% year-on-year increase. This impressive growth reflects the city’s expanding population, limited rental stock, and increasing desirability across all tenant demographics.
Key drivers of growth include:
- Population growth: Greater Manchester is expected to top 600,000 residents in the next year
- Employer demand: Tech, media, education and finance continue to bring workers into the city
- Development hotspots: Ongoing regeneration projects such as Victoria North, New Islington, and Mayfield are reshaping rental opportunities
For landlords, this is a market that rewards good-quality, well-managed properties. For tenants, demand remains competitive, so readiness and clarity are key.
What’s happening in different neighbourhoods?
Manchester offers a diverse landscape, with different districts attracting different renters. Here are some of the areas performing particularly well this summer:
Ancoats & New Islington
Once industrial, now Manchester’s most in-demand postcode for trendy professionals and couples. Think sleek apartments, canalside views, and artisan coffee shops. One-bedroom flats here average between £1,100 and £1,400/month.
Salford Quays & MediaCityUK
The place to be for media professionals and young families alike. With excellent transport links and plenty of new-build apartments, demand is strong. Renters value amenities like concierge services, gyms, and co-working lounges.
Castlefield
A blend of heritage and modernity, Castlefield appeals to professionals looking for character-rich apartments near the city core. Waterside homes with balconies are top of the wish list.
Chorlton & Didsbury
Known for leafy streets, independent bars, and family homes. These neighbourhoods are among the most popular with long-term renters who want more space, schools, and a slower pace.
Fallowfield & Withington
Student favourites, but increasingly attracting young professionals too. HMOs, co-living spaces, and compact flats rent fast in these areas.
Northern Quarter
The bohemian heart of the city continues to attract creatives, digital workers and culture lovers. Expect high demand for exposed-brick apartments with modern finishes.
What are tenants looking for this summer?
While location remains a priority, today’s renters are more discerning than ever. Tenant expectations have shifted, and the most successful landlords are those responding to these trends:
- Energy efficiency: With higher utility bills, tenants value good EPC ratings (C or above)
- Pet-friendly terms: Homes that accept pets let faster, particularly those with outside space
- High-speed internet: Essential for hybrid and remote workers
- Smart layouts: Tenants are seeking dedicated work-from-home areas or flexible-use rooms
- Furnished vs unfurnished: Demand is strong on both fronts, but flexibility is key
Renters’ Reform Bill: What landlords need to know
The Renters’ Reform Bill, currently being rolled out in phases across England, has brought some important updates for Manchester landlords:
- Rent increases limited to once per year
- Ban on bidding wars to encourage fairer access
- Abolition of fixed-term ASTs to be introduced in stages
- Strengthened responsibilities on repairs and housing quality
These reforms are designed to create longer-term stability for tenants, and as a result, landlords who offer well-managed, high-quality homes are in the best position to thrive.
Hunters Manchester provides full compliance guidance and management services to help landlords stay ahead.
Investment spotlight: Where landlords are buying
Landlords looking to invest or expand their portfolio are seeing strong returns in:
- Central apartments in Ancoats, Salford and the Green Quarter
- 3-bed terraces in Levenshulme and Longsight – ideal for families and sharers
- New-build flats in South Manchester for energy-efficient, low-maintenance lettings
- Properties near universities – with strong postgrad and international student demand
Yields in Manchester range between 5% and 7.5%, depending on location and property type. The lettings team at Hunters Manchester offers tailored investment advice and can match investors with buy-to-let properties that align with their goals.
Tenants: How to navigate the summer rental rush
With demand high and quality stock limited, tenants should:
- Start searching early: Properties go quickly, often within 48 hours
- Have documentation ready: Proof of income, references, and ID speed up the process
- Be clear on your must-haves vs nice-to-haves
- Consider transport links and lifestyle fit, not just price
Hunters Manchester offers a transparent, supportive rental process to help tenants find homes that fit their needs and budgets.
A word from the team at Hunters Manchester
“We’re seeing a very healthy rental market this summer – lots of movement, strong rental growth, and really positive feedback from both tenants and landlords. The best-performing landlords are the ones who invest in good presentation, modern features, and responsive property management.”
The Hunters Manchester office is located at 22 St John Street, just minutes from Spinningfields. The team specialises in residential lettings, property management, and buy-to-let investment support.
What Hunters can offer landlords
Whether you’re letting your first property or managing a portfolio, we offer:
- Free market appraisals with realistic rental valuations
- Full tenant find and referencing service
- Compliance checks and legal support
- Fully managed lettings, including maintenance and inspections
With Hunters, you don’t just get a letting agent – you get a long-term partner who cares about your property.
Branch contact details
Hunters Manchester
22 St John Street, Manchester M3 4EB
📞 0161 830 5800
📧 manchesterlettings@hunters.com
🌐 www.hunters.com/office/manchester
What makes Hunters different?
- Local knowledge: We live and breathe Manchester
- National reach: Backed by one of the UK’s most trusted property brands
- Transparent fees and advice: No surprises, no hidden costs
- Customer-first approach: We listen, we support, we deliver
We’re proud to be the trusted lettings partner for landlords and tenants across Greater Manchester.
Summer lettings tips for 2025
Landlords:
- Consider offering longer leases (24 months+) to attract stable tenants
- Invest in upgrades like double glazing, smart meters and fast Wi-Fi
- Allow pets if the property is suitable – it could halve your voids
Tenants:
- Be flexible on move-in dates to widen your options
- Register directly with agents, not just portals
- View as soon as possible – and follow up promptly
Final word: a confident market, a great city
Manchester’s lettings market has matured into one of the UK’s most reliable and exciting. For landlords, the returns are strong and the tenant pool is deep. For renters, the city offers culture, opportunity and lifestyle in equal measure.
With over 30 years of experience and a Manchester-based team of property professionals, Hunters Manchester is here to help you move with confidence this summer and beyond.
Ready to rent, let, or invest? Start your journey with Hunters today.
