The data shows that 24% find it difficult, with an additional eight per cent finding it very difficult.

The representative survey of 1,000 private renters was carried out by the SafeDeposits Scotland Charitable Trust, which works to advance education about housing rights and obligations in the private rented sector.

According to the most recent Scottish Government data, 13% of households (330,000) across Scotland now live in the private rented sector.

The SafeDeposits research shows that 49% of tenants say they regularly make cuts to household essentials such as food, heating and clothing in order to pay the rent.

Almost one in ten (39%) of tenants said they struggle to afford their utility bills, rising to 57% for those in the Highlands where properties are often unable to access mains gas.

Despite concerns about affordability, the vast majority of tenants, 89%, had not approached Rent Service Scotland and/or the relevant tribunal to contest unreasonable rent increases.

Dr Jennifer Harris, head of policy at SafeDeposits Scotland, said: “Affordable homes to rent should be a cornerstone of the sector across Scotland. However, our research shows the struggles many tenants continue to face in paying their rent each month.

“Improving affordability will require a comprehensive strategy for the sector. It needs to include ensuring there are enough homes to rent to meet demand, alongside measures to support tenants’ incomes. This is especially important for all those tenants who face the prospect of their housing benefit rates being frozen.”