SHANGHAI, Aug. 22 -- RENTALS of high-ended residences in Shanghai rose 2.7 percent in July from a month earlier, the Shanghai Morning Post reported today.

Rent for high-end residences around Nanjing Road E. rose 4.7 percent in the month, faster than any other area in the city.

The rent for a single-room apartment on Hankou Road rose to an average of 4,550 yuan (US$599) in July from June's 4,000 yuan.

Rentals in Xujiahui and Xintiandi rose 4.6 percent during the month, and prices in Lujiazui rose 3.2 percent.

Rent for cheaper apartments also rose during the month as a large number of students began seeking apartments after graduating from college.

Rents in Yangpu District grew the fastest at 2.9 percent during the month, followed by Minhang (2.3 percent), Putuo (2.2 percent), Pudong (2.2 percent) and Xuhui (2.1 percent).