Edinburgh Rents Skyrocket, Forcing Major Life Changes

Private rents across Scotland have surged significantly since 2010, outpacing inflation. Edinburgh and Glasgow have experienced the sharpest increases, with two-bedroom properties in the Lothian region averaging £1,356 per month, a 104% rise from 2010. This escalating cost of living has forced individuals like Chris Cullen, a 34-year-old from Edinburgh, into difficult situations. He and his partner faced a potential rent increase from under £900 to £1,750, prompting a stressful relocation and job change.

These rising rents are attributed to a critical lack of supply in the rental market, coupled with increased difficulty in purchasing property. This scenario particularly affects young professionals and those in the 'squeezed middle' who struggle to afford private rentals yet do not qualify for social housing. The private rental sector is no longer a temporary stopgap but a long-term reality for many.

Mid-market rent housing has emerged as a crucial option, offering rents below market rates for those with modest incomes. Cullen and his partner found a new home in north Edinburgh for £880 per month, a significant relief from their previous costs. While this has provided some security, the long-term implications and potential future rent increases remain a concern for many caught in Scotland's rental squeeze.