A Complete Guide to Renting in Aberdeen: What You Need to Know

A Complete Guide to Renting in Aberdeen: What You Need to Know

22 March 2026 · Rent in Aberdeen

Moving to Aberdeen? Whether you're joining the energy industry, starting at the University of Aberdeen or Robert Gordon University, or simply attracted by the Granite City's unique character, renting in Aberdeen has its own rhythms and rules. Here's everything you need to know.

The Aberdeen rental market

Aberdeen's rental market has undergone a significant correction since the oil price crash of 2014–2016. During the boom years, one-bed flats in the City Centre could command £800–£1,000 per month. Today, the same properties rent for £500–£700 — making Aberdeen one of Scotland's more affordable cities for renters. The market has stabilised, and with the energy transition bringing renewed investment, demand is gradually increasing again.

Popular areas like the West End, Ferryhill, and Old Aberdeen attract the most competition. Properties in these areas can receive multiple applications within a few days. Torry and Mastrick offer the best value for budget-conscious renters.

Scottish tenancy law: the basics

Scotland has its own tenancy legislation, different from England. Since December 2017, most private rentals use the Private Residential Tenancy (PRT). Key features:

  • Open-ended: no fixed end date. You can stay as long as you want (and pay rent).
  • 28 days' notice: tenants can leave with 28 days' written notice at any time.
  • Eviction grounds: landlords can only evict using one of 18 specific grounds (e.g. selling the property, landlord moving in, rent arrears).
  • Rent increases: landlords can increase rent once per year with 3 months' notice. You can challenge unreasonable increases.

Deposits

Your deposit must be protected in an approved tenancy deposit scheme within 30 working days of the tenancy starting. The three approved schemes in Scotland are:

  • SafeDeposits Scotland
  • Letting Protection Service Scotland
  • mydeposits Scotland

Deposits are typically one month's rent. If your landlord doesn't protect your deposit, you could be entitled to compensation of up to three times the deposit amount.

HMO licensing

If you're sharing with two or more unrelated people, the property should have an HMO (House in Multiple Occupation) licence from Aberdeen City Council. This ensures the property meets safety standards. Always ask to see the HMO licence before signing — it's a legal requirement.

What to check before signing

  • EPC rating: properties must have a minimum EPC rating of E.
  • Gas safety certificate: must be renewed annually.
  • Electrical installation condition report: required every 5 years.
  • Letting agent registration: all agents must be registered with the Scottish Letting Agent Register.
  • Inventory: always do a thorough check-in inventory with photographs.

Typical costs

Beyond rent, budget for:

  • Council tax: varies by band, typically £100–£170/month for a Band C/D property in the Aberdeen City Council area.
  • Energy: £80–£150/month depending on property size and efficiency. Aberdeen's granite buildings can be cold — check the EPC rating.
  • Contents insurance: £10–£20/month (highly recommended).
  • TV licence: £159/year if you watch live TV or use BBC iPlayer.

Note: letting agents in Scotland cannot charge tenants fees for referencing, credit checks, or administration. This was banned by the Tenant Fees Act.

Finding a property

Start your search on Rent in Aberdeen — we focus exclusively on Aberdeen, so every listing is relevant. Use our neighbourhood guides to understand different areas, and set up email alerts to be notified when new properties match your criteria.