Rent prices rise when more people move to cities for work and there are not enough homes. Rapid population growth, migration to major economic centres, higher construction costs, and an increase in expatriates and foreign workers also push rental prices higher.
Organisations such as the United Nations have warned that Africa’s urban population will continue to grow rapidly, which may place further pressure on housing availability.
And as urban populations grow and housing supply fails to keep up, tenants across the continent are paying more than ever.
Here are the ten most expensive cities to rent in Africa in 2026, according to the Numbeo Rent Index. 
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10 Expensive African Cities to Rent an Apartment in 2026
1. Lagos, Nigeria — Rent Index: 23.4
Lagos sits at the top by a wide margin. Nigeria’s commercial capital draws workers, students, and migrants in massive numbers, and the demand for housing in upmarket areas like Lekki, Victoria Island, and Ikoyi far outpaces supply. That gap is what keeps rents the highest on the continent.
2. Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire — Rent Index: 21.4
Abidjan comes second because the city attracts both local professionals and foreign workers in finance, telecommunications, and trade. This growing workforce has increased demand for modern apartments, especially in business districts.
3. Addis Ababa, Ethiopia — Rent Index: 21.3
Addis Ababa hosts the African Union and dozens of embassies, which generates consistent demand for quality housing. Foreign diplomats, international workers, and investors continue to drive demand for high-quality apartments, particularly in secure residential areas.
4. Cape Town, South Africa — Rent Index: 20.8
Cape Town’s coastline, international schools, and thriving tourism industry pull residents from across South Africa and abroad. Housing near the city centre and along the Atlantic Seaboard is scarce, and renters pay a premium to stay close to beaches, attractions, and job markets.
5. Kigali, Rwanda — Rent Index: 16.1
Kigali’s reputation for safety, cleanliness, and organised urban planning makes it attractive to professionals and foreign workers. Demand for modern apartments with reliable utilities continues to grow faster than supply, particularly in high-end neighborhoods like Kimihurura, Kacyiru, and Nyarutarama.
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6. Windhoek, Namibia — Rent Index: 15.0
Windhoek has a relatively small population, but demand for quality rentals in established suburbs like Klein Windhoek, Olympia, and Eros remains steady. Tenants frequently compete for a small pool of available properties.
7. Johannesburg, South Africa — Rent Index: 13.2
Johannesburg remains South Africa’s largest economic hub, and its strong job market attracts workers from across the region. High demand in key areas such as Sandton and Rosebank continues to keep rental prices high.
8. Pretoria, South Africa — Rent Index: 12.8
Pretoria’s role as South Africa’s administrative capital ensures steady demand for rental housing. Government officials, diplomats, and international workers all require accommodation. This consistent demand keeps rents relatively high in key neighbourhoods.
9. Rabat, Morocco — Rent Index: 12.4
Rabat attracts students, government employees, and diplomats, which increases demand for housing. Its well-planned infrastructure and quality living standards make it desirable, particularly in central areas.
10. Casablanca, Morocco — Rent Index: 11.2
Casablanca is Morocco’s largest city and financial centre. Its strong economy attracts businesses and workers, increasing demand for housing near commercial zones. Central districts remain the most expensive, while more affordable options exist on the outskirts.
Rent prices in major African cities are expected to remain high as urbanisation continues. Without major investment in affordable housing, tenants may face even greater challenges finding reasonably priced accommodation in the coming years.
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