New data reveals one in six renters are working more than one job

New data released today reveals renters are having to work multiple jobs just to be able to afford the basics.

The research by leading flatshare site SpareRoom reveals 17% of UK renters have more than one job, and that figure increases to one in five (20%) when looking specifically at Londoners. Across the country, a huge 82% of renters have only had to start working more than one job in the last 18 months.

Of those working multiple jobs, two in three (67%) say they have taken on additional employment just to be able to afford their rent. That figure rises to 70% for those within the Capital, as room prices continue to reach unprecedented rates (see latest rents here). More broadly, 66% say they work more than one job just to pay their bills.

Two in five (40%) UK renters with multiple jobs cited needing extra cash to spend on holidays, clothes and nights out, whilst over half (54%) said they work multiple jobs so that they’re able to save some money. Recent data (here) shows that the majority (81%) of renters are spending more than 30% of their take-home pay on rent, so it’s unsurprising that renters are finding themselves with less disposable income for leisure activities and savings, and are turning to extra employment to cover costs.

Matt Hutchinson, SpareRoom director comments: “Rents have hit an all-time high, and with salaries failing to keep pace with inflation, people are really feeling the squeeze.

With rent and bills eating up a huge proportion of Brits’ take-home pay, many people are having to take on extra jobs just to make ends meet. Rising rents will only cause more affordability issues for UK renters, so it’s crucial the government understands the severity of this situation and the urgent need to do something to put an end to this housing crisis.”