LONDON, October 10, 2026: Living in rented accommodation, falling behind on housing payments and experiencing poor living conditions may be associated with faster biological ageing, according to research examining the relationship between housing circumstances and human health.
Researchers from the University of Essex and the University of Adelaide investigated how housing conditions, rental history, housing costs and rent arrears relate to biological ageing.
To estimate participants’ biological age, the researchers examined measurements associated with DNA methylation, a biological process that can provide clues about ageing-related changes in the body.
The findings indicated a significant association between renting a home and faster biological ageing. In some analyses, the relationship was stronger than the effects associated with unemployment or smoking, according to the report.
The researchers also considered participants’ previous housing circumstances. Repeated rent arrears and exposure to pollution or other problems in the home environment were also associated with accelerated biological ageing.
Biological Age Is Different From Calendar Age
Biological age refers to changes in the body that can indicate how quickly its systems are ageing. It differs from chronological age, which is measured by the number of years a person has lived.
However, the researchers’ findings demonstrate an association, not proof that renting a home directly causes faster ageing in every individual. Housing insecurity, financial pressure and environmental conditions may all contribute to the relationship.
Housing Security and Public Health
The findings highlight the potential importance of stable, healthy housing for public health. The researchers suggest that policy measures aimed at improving housing security, limiting rent increases and providing more stable accommodation could help protect people’s wellbeing.
The study draws attention to housing as more than an economic concern, suggesting that living conditions and financial security may also have implications for long-term health.