Gen Z is Changing How We Move: Furniture Rental is the Future in the UK

At URemovals, we’re always tracking the latest trends in the UK’s moving industry to keep our services cutting-edge. Based on our research, we’ve identified an unexpected shift in 2025: Gen Z (ages 15-28) is transforming relocations by choosing to rent furniture instead of buying and moving it. Driven by sky-high rents, a passion for sustainability, and a need for flexibility, this trend is reshaping the moving landscape. Backed by solid UK data, here’s a deep dive into why Gen Z is leading this change and how it can inspire your next move.

The Numbers Behind the Trend

The UK furniture rental market is booming, growing at a 10.2% compound annual growth rate (CAGR) from 2025 to 2035, largely driven by Gen Z and Millennials, who represent a significant portion of the UK’s 17% Gen Z population (roughly 11.5 million people) and the private rental sector. With average private rents reaching £1,301 per month in 2025, and young renters spending up to 35% of their income on rent, affordability is a key factor. The English Housing Survey 2023/24 shows that 57% of private renters under 35 stay in their homes for less than three years, making frequent moves a reality for this group.

Services like Harth, Feather, and Fat Llama are tapping into this demand, offering subscription-based furniture rentals that deliver stylish, high-quality pieces without the burden of ownership. A 2025 analysis notes that 44% of Gen Z’s furniture choices are shaped by social media trends, with platforms like Instagram highlighting rental services’ trendy, sustainable options. This aligns with their embrace of the circular economy, where renting reduces waste compared to buying disposable "fast furniture."

Find more at Horizon | Grand View Research

Why Gen Z is Choosing Rentals Over Moving

Here’s why furniture rental is gaining traction among young UK movers:

1. Slashing Relocation Costs: Moving heavy furniture like beds or sofas can cost £50-£200 per job, based on UK moving industry estimates. Renting furniture eliminates these expenses, as renters can return or swap items at their new address. With potential lifetime renting costs of £483,000 without building equity, Gen Z sees this as a smart financial move.
2. Flexibility for a Mobile Generation: Gen Z’s lifestyle is highly mobile—think students relocating between uni cities like Bristol or Leeds, or young professionals chasing jobs in London or Manchester. Furniture subscriptions offer no long-term commitment, allowing renters to swap styles or return pieces as their needs evolve. This is critical in a rental market where supply is up 20%, but demand from young professionals remains intense.
3. Sustainability as a Priority: Gen Z is the most eco-conscious generation, with 70% preferring eco-friendly products. Furniture rental supports sustainability by promoting reuse over waste, aligning with their values. Choosing rentals over new purchases reduces the environmental impact of manufacturing and discarding furniture.

What This Means for the Moving Industry

This trend is a wake-up call for removal companies. As Gen Z moves away from transporting large furniture, traditional movers may see declining demand for these services. But it’s also an opportunity. At URemovals, we’re exploring light-load moving services tailored to Gen Z’s minimalist approach and considering partnerships with furniture rental companies to offer bundled move-and-furnish packages. Imagine a seamless experience where we handle your essentials, and a rental partner delivers a sleek sofa to your new flat hassle-free and eco-friendly.

The rise of furniture rental also underscores the need for tech-savvy solutions. Gen Z expects digital convenience, from booking moves to browsing furniture online. We’re investing in virtual quoting tools and integrations with rental platforms to make your move as smooth as a subscription signup.

How URemovals Can Help You Ride This Wave

Whether you’re a Gen Z renter keeping it light or a family curious about this rental trend, Sandor and I at URemovals are here to make your move a breeze. Our services are built to fit any kind of relocation, and here’s how we’re stepping up:

• Light-Load Moves: Got minimal stuff? Our light-load options are perfect for renters, saving you time and money.
• Supporting Climate Action: We donate 1% of every booking to Stripe Climate, pioneers in removing carbon emissions, so your move helps the planet.
• Flexible Van Sizes: From small flats to big family homes, we offer different van sizes to match any move, no matter how much you’re bringing.

Let’s Move Smarter Together

This Gen Z furniture rental trend isn’t just a fad it’s a smart, sustainable way to tackle the UK’s pricey rental market. At URemovals, Sandor and I are all in on making your move easier and more modern. Ready to try a new kind of relocation? Get a free quote today or give us a shout to customise your move.

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