A new study finds tenants are prioritising wellbeing, stability and lifestyle over location alone, with four Northern Ireland locations making the UK’s Top 10 Rental Wellness Hotspots.
Cambridge has been named the UK’s leading ‘rental wellness’ hotspot in a new report exploring the locations where tenants are most likely to enjoy long-term living and landlords can benefit from stronger tenant retention and more sustainable investment returns.

The research, from leading Belfast-based estate agency John Minnis shows that as the private rented sector continues to evolve, with tenants increasingly seeking homes that offer more than just affordability. Energy efficiency, access to green space, strong transport links, local amenities and a sense of community are becoming key drivers of where people choose to rent.

For landlords, this shift presents a significant opportunity. Homes that provide a better overall living experience are more likely to attract longer-term tenants, helping to reduce void periods, lower re-letting costs and create more predictable rental income.

The UK’s Top 10 Rental Wellness Hotspots
Rank
Location
Why it Stands Out
1
Cambridge
World-leading employment, extensive green space, excellent cycling infrastructure and a highly stable professional rental market.
2
Edinburgh
Outstanding quality of life, strong employment market and consistently high rental demand.
3
Belfast
Affordable city living, growing economy, excellent amenities and one of the UK’s strongest rental markets.
4
Galway
Coastal lifestyle, vibrant cultural scene and strong long-term rental demand.
5
Bristol
Thriving economy, excellent transport and a strong focus on wellbeing and sustainability.
6
Derry/Londonderry
Affordable housing, growing tenant demand and strong community appeal.
7
York
Historic city offering excellent connectivity, lifestyle and long-term tenant demand.
8
Lisburn
Family-friendly neighbourhoods, excellent schools and strong commuter links.
9
Cork
Growing international employment base and resilient rental market.
10
Bangor
Coastal living, outdoor lifestyle and excellent access to Belfast.

Cambridge secured the highest overall ranking due to its combination of economic opportunity, environmental quality and tenant appeal.

The city benefits from one of the UK’s strongest employment markets, extensive parks and green spaces, exceptional cycling and public transport infrastructure, highly regarded education facilities and a diverse rental market driven by professionals, academics and technology businesses.

These factors contribute to longer average tenancies and continued demand for quality rental homes, making Cambridge an attractive proposition for both renters seeking stability and landlords looking for resilient long-term investment.

While Cambridge tops the national ranking, Northern Ireland is one of the standout performers, with Belfast, Derry/Londonderry, Lisburn and Bangor all featuring in the UK’s Top 10.

The report attributes this to the region’s combination of affordability, strong rental demand, attractive lifestyle locations and growing regional economies. Compared with many parts of Great Britain, Northern Ireland continues to offer accessible entry prices for investors while maintaining high levels of tenant demand.

The report identifies a growing trend towards “Rental Wellness” – homes and neighbourhoods that support longer-term living through high-quality housing, energy efficiency, access to amenities, community connections and overall wellbeing.

For tenants, this means finding homes that provide greater stability and a better quality of life.

For landlords, it means creating properties that attract long-term occupiers, helping to reduce tenant turnover, minimise void periods and improve long-term investment performance.