Renting isn't just for young people anymore - a growing number of people from all ages are opting to rent, sparking concerns about affordability and access to homeownership.
The reality is stark: over the past two decades, the number of households renting in England and Wales has more than doubled, with 5 million private renters now calling this country home. What was once seen as a temporary solution for young adults seeking financial stability has become an increasingly common choice for people from all walks of life.
The statistics paint a clear picture: older renters are becoming a significant part of the mix. According to recent data, households aged 55 and above have seen their numbers skyrocket by 70% since 2010/11. This shift is particularly noteworthy, given that renting was once seen as a last resort for those struggling to find affordable housing.
As our society continues to grapple with the complexities of the rental market, it's clear that age is no longer a barrier to renting. But what does this mean for those who are renting, and those who aspire to own their homes one day? We want to hear from you - whether you're a seasoned renter in your 60s or a young adult in your late teens.
Have you found yourself unexpectedly stuck in the rental market? Do you think owning a property is still within reach for you? Or do you have horror stories about renting that we'd love to hear? Your experiences and insights are invaluable in helping us understand this changing landscape.
The reality is stark: over the past two decades, the number of households renting in England and Wales has more than doubled, with 5 million private renters now calling this country home. What was once seen as a temporary solution for young adults seeking financial stability has become an increasingly common choice for people from all walks of life.
The statistics paint a clear picture: older renters are becoming a significant part of the mix. According to recent data, households aged 55 and above have seen their numbers skyrocket by 70% since 2010/11. This shift is particularly noteworthy, given that renting was once seen as a last resort for those struggling to find affordable housing.
As our society continues to grapple with the complexities of the rental market, it's clear that age is no longer a barrier to renting. But what does this mean for those who are renting, and those who aspire to own their homes one day? We want to hear from you - whether you're a seasoned renter in your 60s or a young adult in your late teens.
Have you found yourself unexpectedly stuck in the rental market? Do you think owning a property is still within reach for you? Or do you have horror stories about renting that we'd love to hear? Your experiences and insights are invaluable in helping us understand this changing landscape.
I'm loving the shift in perspective on renting, but can't help feeling like affordability is still a major issue 
. I know I've friends who have been renting for years, and they're not getting any younger 
. What's the plan to make homeownership more accessible for everyone? 
But at the same time, it's good that people are being practical and choosing what works for them.
And have there been any initiatives to make renting more affordable for older folks?
It seems like a big shift in priorities, but maybe that's just good sense in today's economy... 
. As someone who's been renting for years, I feel like I've seen a lot of young people move into the market, but what about those of us who are trying to work our way up from renting? Is it really impossible to get on the ladder now 
?
. But now I'm seeing 55+ year olds doing the same and that's just crazy 
. What do you guys think is gonna happen when we can't even afford to buy homes anymore? 
. I think its time for us to rethink what owning a home means and how we can make it more accessible for everyone 
.
Renting is like the adulting equivalent of eating ramen noodles – it's only good for so long, but at least you won't starve 
. On a more serious note (just for a sec, I promise), I think this shift in renting trends is actually kinda cool? Like, who says old people can't be hip to the rental scene? 
Now we just gotta make sure there's enough decent places to live and not too many rent hikes, or it'll get all messed up 
. It's like, we need more options, you know? Affordable housing for all ages is the way forward 
️.
. But what really worries me is affordability 
.
. And have you seen how expensive rent prices are lately? 
I just hope that governments and landlords can find a way to make things more accessible and affordable 
. Have they found ways to cope with the stress of renting, or have they had any success stories about owning a home? 
, and I think it's cool that people of all ages are giving it a shot. My mum is 62 and she's actually just rented a new flat, she loves the flexibility and freedom of not having to worry about maintenance costs 
I've got a friend who's in her mid-40s and she's been renting for years because she just can't afford to buy. And honestly, she's happy with that decision - she gets more freedom to travel and doesn't have to worry about maintenance and repairs 
.
...but at the same time I worry about the cost of living increasing even more which might make it harder for people to get into a property. It's all quite confusing and I think the government needs to come up with some new policies to help with that.
. Like, 70% increase in households aged 55+ since 2010/11 is crazy!