Private renters are facing big price rises to keep a roof over their heads

Private renters in Sunderland have had to pay a lot more to keep a roof over their heads in the last year, new figures show.

- by Echo Reporter

Figures from the Office for National Statistics (ONS) show the average private rent in the city reached £673 per month in the year to July - up by eight per cent from £624 a year prior and 26% up from £533 a month five years ago.

The data comes as separate ONS data shows rent affordability in England has worsened-with people earning an average salary are expected to spend more than 30% of their income rent.

Across the North East, the average rent was £736 - also up nine per cent, with Newcastle having the highest rental cost in the region at £1,100 per month.

The average private rent nationally was £1,355 in July - £76 (6%) higher than 12 months ago.

The figures also show the different costs for various homes in Sunderland, from £499 for a one-bed property to £1,036 for a home with four or more bedrooms.

These include: