London co-living operator bamco recorded 99.15% occupancy across its 1,600-unit portfolio in August 2026, the highest monthly figure the business has reported so far this year.
The August rate is 0.45% higher than July and sits 0.79% above bamco's year-to-date average of 98.39%, making it the strongest month of 2026 to date. The figures point to sustained demand for professionally managed rental accommodation in the capital at a time when suitable supply remains constrained.
London's broader rental market provides context for the figures. ONS data shows average private rent in the capital reached £2,317 per month in July 2026, up 3.0% on the previous year and the highest of any English region.
Alex Gibbs, co-founder and director of bamco, said August's result reflects both the strength of renter demand and the qualities tenants are increasingly seeking. "August's 99.15% occupancy rate is a really strong signal for the London rental market and, importantly, it shows that demand for well-managed co-living accommodation remains exceptionally high," he said.
"We're seeing a market where renters are increasingly looking for more than simply four walls. They want well-designed homes, flexibility, convenience and a professionally managed experience, and our occupancy figures suggest that this proposition is resonating strongly."
On the supply side, Gibbs pointed to several factors squeezing available stock for bamco's target demographic. "We are seeing a number of factors constrict the supply of properties to our target demographic," he said.
"Sweeping Article 4 Directions across London boroughs prohibiting the creation of shared houses is a big contributing factor. Additionally, our data shows that an increased number of asset owners have chosen to sell in the last twelve months when compared with previous periods. Key reasons cited for exiting the market have been increased mortgage costs, increased taxation and the recent legislation changes."
The reference to landlord exits will resonate with those tracking the impact of regulatory and tax changes on London's private rented sector. Article 4 Directions, which require planning permission for conversions to houses in multiple occupation, have been adopted across a growing number of London boroughs, limiting the pipeline of new shared housing stock.
Gibbs added that the demand picture gives the operator confidence about co-living's longer-term role in London's housing market. "For us, the priority is continuing to deliver homes that meet the expectations of our occupants. The strength of demand we've seen throughout 2026 gives us confidence that co-living has an important role to play in the future of London's rental market."
