Recent research by Rightmove identifies Carlisle, Hull, and Sunderland as the most affordable cities for renters outside London, with average rents of £791, £804, and £807 per month respectively. Carlisle leads the affordability list, significantly below the national average rent of £1,349 pcm. Additionally, Preston and Lancaster are highlighted as budget-friendly options with average rents of £952 and £993. The study reveals a stark rental divide across Great Britain, with the most expensive city, St. Albans, averaging £2,307 pcm, illustrating over a £1,500 difference from the cheapest cities. Rental prices in many areas have surged by over 40% in the past five years, raising concerns for students and recent graduates regarding affordability. In Oxfordshire, Bicester ranks as the cheapest area to rent at £1,123 pcm, contrasting sharply with Oxford's average of £1,660 pcm.