Credit: The Bolton News – The full content requires a paid viewing subscription.
What’s Behind the Rise in Bolton Rental Prices?
Bolton rental prices have seen a significant jump in the past year, and Cardwells Estate Agents has been closely tracking the trend across both Bolton and Greater Manchester. According to the latest figures from the Office for National Statistics (ONS), the average monthly rent in Bolton reached £791 in the year to February 2025, marking a 9.6% increase compared to the previous year.
Despite this rise, Bolton remains one of the more affordable rental markets in Greater Manchester, ranking just behind Wigan and Rochdale.
Speaking on the issue, Andrew Cardwell, Managing Director at Cardwells, pointed to one core factor driving up rental prices in Bolton: a lack of supply in the private rental sector.
“Many landlords are exiting the market due to a combination of rising tax pressures—such as increased stamp duty and reduced mortgage interest relief—and new regulations like the Renters (Reform) Bill, which includes plans to abolish Section 21 ‘no fault’ evictions,” Andrew explained.
The risk now outweighs the reward for smaller landlords with just one or two properties, often used to support retirement plans. As these landlords sell up, available rental properties decrease, even as tenant demand remains high.
A Perfect Storm for the Bolton Rental Market
The squeeze on rental supply comes as many local authority homes have been sold off, putting further strain on social housing options. Andrew warned that without investment in new housing across all tenures, pressure on the market—and rental prices in Bolton—will likely continue.
He also noted that landlords are being hit by the same cost-of-living pressures as tenants, especially with rising mortgage rates. “Many landlords aren’t increasing rent to make more profit—they’re doing it just to cover rising costs,” Andrew added. “And if they can’t, they’re forced to sell, which worsens the supply issue.”
Looking Ahead
While rising rent in Bolton is concerning for many residents, understanding the forces behind these increases—from legislation to financial strain—helps illuminate the challenges facing both tenants and landlords.
For more local property market updates, visit Cardwells Estate Agents or follow us on social media.
Read the full news article at The Bolton News. The full content requires a paid subscription to view.
