# Buy-to-let vs stock market: Which gives better growth?

> 30 years of buy-to-let outperformed S&P 500 but recent trends favor stocks
- Title: Buy-to-let vs stock market: Which gives better growth?
- Summary: 30 years of buy-to-let outperformed S&P 500 but recent trends favor stocks Landlords earned 2,130% growth over 30 years but now face slower returns and…
- Keywords: buy-to-let, s&p 500, ftse 100, renters rights act, house prices, property investment, stock market, rental income, property management, financial returns, stock, market
- Source: MoneyWeek — https://moneyweek.com/investments/buy-to-let-vs-stock-market
- Published: 2026-09-28T09:13:32+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: buy-to-let, s&p 500, ftse 100, renters rights act, house prices, property investment, stock market, rental income, property management, financial returns
## Buy-to-let history
Buy-to-let mortgages launched in 1996 when average homes cost £54,900.
## Past returns
Landlords earned 2,130% growth over 30 years, making £1 invested worth £22.30.
## Stock market comparison
S&P 500 grew 2,105% over 30 years, but FTSE 100 grew only 796%.
## Gold comparison
Gold grew 796% over 30 years, but buy-to-let grew 2,130%.
## Recent shift
Over last five years, buy-to-let grew 41% versus 75% for S&P 500.
## Regulatory changes
Renters' Rights Act gives tenants stronger powers since 2026.
## Workload impact
Landlords handle repairs, tenant issues, and empty periods without help.

> Jessica Sheldon said: 'When choosing between buy-to-let or stock market, factor in other expenses.'
## Current trade-off
Stock market offers faster growth but requires less time and effort.
## Key takeaway

Landlords earned 2,130% growth over 30 years but now face slower returns and higher costs