Bristol is one of the fastest growing cities in the UK. Over the last Census period, it’s population went from 428,200 to 472,400 – growth of 10.3%, exceeding both regional and national growth averages. Furthermore, Bristol City Council notes that the speed of growth is increasing. The last full year on record saw the largest annual  increase in population since 2016, making Bristol the second fastest growing core city after Manchester in terms of population.

By 2040, the Council estimates that Bristol’s population will rise to more than 525,000 as the current pace of growth shows no signs of slowing. It has been estimated by planning and architecture practice Marrons that Bristol’s predicted 2040 population means that an additional 60,000 homes will need to be built in the city – meaning that a major supply issue over the next 15 years is highly likely.

That is on top of the existing supply issues which are already pushing prices up. As of Q2 2024, Rightmove records the average property price in Bristol is 8% higher than the 2021 peak.

Rents are similarly affected by the housing shortage in Bristol. Research from the Living Rent Commission shows that rents are increasing 12.9% year-on-year in the city which is serious growth. 

Bristol’s population growth and housing market offers everything that investors could ask for – high growth, low supply and construction rates that are not adequate to meet demand