Top 10 UK Cities Most Welcoming for DSS Tenants in 2025

Access to cheap housing as a DSS tenant remains a problem in 2025. While the term “DSS” (denoting tenants who receive housing benefit or Universal Credit) is actually out of date, it’s still commonly used to refer to renters who are dependent on state aid. While a few landlords remain hesitant, more and more UK cities are accepting of DSS tenants, making it easier for individuals to find rental property in the DSS market.

In this blog, we flag up the best 10 DSS-friendly places to live in the UK in 2025, cities that welcome tenants on benefits rather than tolerating them. 

Whether for affordability, availability, or inclusive local policy, these cities offer the best places to rent DSS.

  1. Liverpool

Why it’s DSS-friendly:

Liverpool has consistently been one of the most reasonably priced large cities in the UK, and as of 2025, it continues to be the top DSS-friendly city. Much of the private landlords here accept DSS tenants due to the high local support programs and the competitive nature of the rental market.

Average rent:

  • £650 for a 2-bedroom flat

Local support

Liverpool City Council collaborates with private landlords to promote inclusive renting, such as schemes that match DSS tenants and willing landlords.

  1. Manchester

Why it’s DSS-friendly:

Even though Manchester has become a business and tech hub, it is quite inclusive compared to other cities. It has a vibrant community of DSS landlords and letting agents who are well aware of housing benefits rental UK procedures.

Average rent:

  • £750 for a 2-bedroom flat

Local support:

Manchester Housing Options service actively assists DSS tenants and helps them link up with suitable accommodation.

  1. Birmingham

Why it’s DSS-friendly:

Being the UK’s second-largest city, Birmingham provides diversity not only in culture but also in rentals. Most areas, particularly in the north and east of the city, have a high density of DSS-accepted properties.

Average rent:

  • £700 for a 2-bedroom flat

Local support:

Some letting agencies specialize in DSS tenants and know how to cut through the benefit claim process with landlords.

  1. Sheffield

Why it’s DSS-friendly:

Sheffield’s property market is still one of the cheapest in major cities. And it’s also a leader in progressive thinking when it comes to inclusive housing, so it’s a favorite choice in the DSS rental sector.

Average rent:

  • £625 for a 2-bedroom flat

Local support:

The council also offers clear instructions for landlords and tenants on dealing with benefit-backed rent contracts.

  1. Nottingham

Why it’s DSS-friendly:

Nottingham is well-experienced when it comes to housing DSS tenants. There is a huge student population combined with low-income residents, meaning landlords are very willing to take alternative forms of income, such as housing benefits.

Average rent:

  • £695 per 2-bedroom flat

Local support:

Local housing associations that are keenly involved in supporting DSS applicants in securing a proper private tenancy.

  1. Leeds

Why it’s DSS-friendly:

Leeds offers value for money and an increasing number of DSS-verified landlords. It’s particularly welcoming to single parents and families on Universal Credit.

Average rent:

  • £725 for a 2-bedroom flat

Local support:

Leeds Council’s housing support schemes are strong, with mediation between landlords and tenants if necessary.

  1. Newcastle upon Tyne

Why it’s DSS-friendly:

Newcastle is known for its friendly, down-to-earth rental market. There’s less stigma associated with DSS tenants here compared to more expensive southern cities.

Average rent:

  • £620 for a 2-bedroom flat

Local support:

Landlords can access incentives from the city to rent to DSS tenants, especially if properties meet certain standards.

  1. Bradford

Why it’s DSS-friendly:

One of the lowest average rents in the UK, Bradford is a desirable place for DSS tenants. Most landlords here actively market themselves as DSS-accepting.

Average rent:

  • £575 for a 2-bedroom flat

Local support:

The council has collaborated with charities to make private rentals more accessible for housing benefit claimants.

  1. Hull

Why it’s DSS-friendly:

Hull is still one of the cheapest cities in England and has been a low-income tenant haven for a long time. There is plenty of DSS-compatible property here.

Average rent:

  • £550 for a 2-bedroom flat

Local support:

There are a number of letting agents that deal with DSS lettings, so the process is easier for both parties.

  1. Sunderland

Why it’s DSS-friendly:

Sunderland’s local councils have made conscious efforts to minimize homelessness and housing insecurity, providing a conducive environment for DSS tenants to have greater opportunities to obtain homes.

Average rent:

  • £500 for a 2-bedroom flat

Local support:

Excellent support from Sunderland City Council and various charities that are dedicated to supporting benefit-dependent households.

Key Factors That Make a City DSS-Friendly

Not all cheap cities are DSS-friendly. The following are a few signs that identify whether a place is DSS-friendly or not:

  • Percentage of DSS-accepting landlords: Places with a greater percentage of open-minded landlords are more friendly.
  • Local authority efforts: Certain councils offer financial rewards to landlords for renting out to DSS tenants.
  • Affordability of rent: Smaller average rents make it easier for benefit tenants to find flats.
  • Supportive letting agents: Agents who understand the Universal Credit and housing benefit systems are needed.

DSS Tenants’ Tips for Finding Homes in the UK Rental Market

If you’re looking for DSS accommodation in 2025, here are some quick tips to enhance your prospects:

  • Utilize specialist sites

Sites such as FindMyMove identify DSS-friendly properties and agents.

  • Submit documents in advance

References, identification, and benefit letters help build trust with landlords.

  • Consider guarantors

Some landlords have a preference for DSS tenants who are willing to offer a guarantor, particularly for first-time tenants.

  • Communicate clearly

Be open about your benefits, timescales, and housing history.

Why DSS-Friendly Cities Matter More Than Ever in 2025

The UK private rental sector remains competitive in 2025, particularly with scarce affordable housing and increasing private rents. For DSS tenants, discovering cities where landlords are receptive and councils are proactive can be everything.

Most importantly, DSS-friendly cities in the UK are a step towards increased housing equality. As economic pressure intensifies and housing benefit claimants rise, cities that set the bar for inclusiveness will have a better chance at ensuring long-term community stability and housing security.

Conclusion

Whether you’re newly applying for housing benefits rental in the UK or looking to relocate for better access to DSS-approved properties, the cities above represent the best places to rent DSS in 2025. At FindMyMove, we’re committed to helping DSS tenants navigate the rental landscape with confidence, clarity, and dignity.

We invite you to browse our listings, tools, and expert resources designed specifically for the DSS rental sector. Our mission is straightforward: to make housing affordable and accessible, regardless of your background or benefit status.

Seeking DSS-friendly rentals in your area?Begin your property search at dev1.internetish.xyz/ today.