The 20-minute edge: Why Tamworth is outperforming Birmingham for rental yields in 2026

Landlords reviewing rental yield calculations and property investment plans

Tamworth has always been a strategic hub – but in 2026, it’s proving to be a standout performer for landlords. With direct rail links to Birmingham in under 20 minutes and London Euston in just over an hour, this Staffordshire town is attracting a new wave of professional tenants.

As property prices in Birmingham remain high, more commuters are looking north. For landlords in B79, that shift is creating stronger yields and fewer voids. But with new regulations arriving this year, it’s also time to tighten up compliance.

Tamworth rental market: where are we now?

In early 2026, Tamworth’s rental market continued to outperform the regional average. According to recent data:

  • Average 2-bed rents in Tamworth: £1,120
  • Annual rental growth: 4.3%, vs. 3.1% in the wider West Midlands
  • Time to let: 12 days on average
  • Most in-demand: modern 2-bed flats near the station and 3-bed homes with parking

This performance is driven by commuter demand and excellent transport links. The market is especially active around Tamworth Station, which offers direct routes to Birmingham New Street and London Euston.

What’s drawing professional tenants?

Professional renters are increasingly seeking homes that offer convenience, value and lifestyle flexibility. In Tamworth, that means:

  • Short commutes: Birmingham in 18 minutes, London in 65
  • Modern flats and new developments close to the town centre
  • Lower monthly rents than Birmingham, for similar property quality
  • Good schools, green space and strong local amenities

The result? More tenants are bypassing city-centre Birmingham in favour of professional lets near Tamworth Station.

Rental yields in B79: outperforming the city

While gross yields in Birmingham city centre average around 4.3%, landlords in Tamworth are achieving average yields of 4.8%, with some 2-bed units topping 5%.

Key yield drivers:

  • Affordable property prices relative to Birmingham
  • Strong tenant demand from commuters
  • New build flats in central Tamworth attracting higher rents

For investors, this makes Tamworth one of the most reliable rental yields hotspots in Staffordshire.

New rules in 2026: what landlords need to know

The Renters’ Rights Act 2026 has now been rolled out, with new responsibilities for landlords. Here are the key changes:

1. No-fault evictions abolished

You can no longer serve a Section 21 notice. You must provide a valid reason under Section 8 and back it up with evidence.

2. Minimum housing standards

Every property must meet set safety, energy and repair standards – or face enforcement action.

3. Extended notice periods

Most tenancy breaches now require a three-month notice period, up from two months.

4. Mandatory property portal

All rental homes must be registered on the new national property portal. Fines apply for unregistered homes.

Why self-managing is getting riskier

The combination of rising rents and stricter rules makes self-managing a tough balancing act.

If you’re not fully up to speed on the new requirements, you risk:

  • Delayed or blocked evictions due to incorrect notice
  • Fines for missing property portal registration
  • Rent repayment orders for non-compliance

Given the pace of change, many landlords are now turning to property management in B79 to avoid costly mistakes.

The value of professional property management

At Hunters Tamworth, we’re supporting landlords across Staffordshire to:

  • Keep pace with compliance
  • Handle rent reviews, renewals and notices
  • Manage maintenance and safety inspections
  • Represent landlords during disputes

Our Fully Managed service removes the hassle and reduces the risk, letting you focus on returns.

Tamworth vs Birmingham: the investor’s view

Let’s compare the two:

Factor Birmingham Tamworth
Average rent (2-bed) £1,275 £1,120
Average price (2-bed flat) £210,000 £170,000
Average yield 4.3% 4.8%
Time to let 18 days 12 days

Not only are yields stronger in Tamworth, but faster lets and lower purchase prices make it a more accessible market for new investors.

Tamworth in 2026: What to watch

Looking ahead, key areas of opportunity include:

Town centre regeneration

Plans are advancing for improvements to Tamworth’s retail and public space offer, which will further boost rental appeal.

Station-adjacent developments

Flats within 5 minutes of the station are seeing the strongest rent increases. Future developments here are likely to outperform.

EPC upgrades and retrofit demand

With EPC rules tightening, properties with a C rating or above are attracting higher rents. Retrofitting is becoming a must-do.

What landlords should do now

If you’re letting or investing in Tamworth:

  • Review your compliance under the Renters’ Rights Act 2026
  • Register your property on the national portal
  • Consider a Fully Managed service to protect your income
  • Use current market data to guide rent reviews
  • Explore EPC improvement options to future-proof your home

Let’s protect your rental income

With strong yields, fast lets and growing demand, Tamworth remains a top commuter investment location. But the rules are changing – and compliance matters more than ever.

Whether you’re based locally or investing from afar, we can help you stay one step ahead.

Book a free rental valuation with Hunters Tamworth

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