Most Expensive African Cities To Rent Apartment In 2026

By Enitan Abdultawab

Rent in African urban centres has become increasingly costly, with demand rising, housing supply lagging and city populations expanding.

According to the Numbeo Rent Index (Worldometer-referenced February 2026 data), the following cities have the highest rental costs on the continent — meaning tenants there pay more for housing relative to many other African locations.

1. Lagos, Nigeria — Rent Index: 23.4

With a Rent Index of 23.4 — much higher than other cities on the continent — Lagos continues to be the most expensive city in Africa to rent. Every year, hundreds of thousands of workers, students, and migrants are drawn to Nigeria’s commercial centre, which intensifies competition for accommodation. Due to the need for safe, upscale lodging, premium areas like Lekki, Victoria Island, and Ikoyi have especially high rents.

2. Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire — Rent Index: 21.4

Abidjan’s fast-expanding economy and status as a business hub in West Africa are reflected in its ranking as the second most expensive city, with a Rent Index of 21.4. Due to competition for pleasant housing, the city attracts both local professionals and foreign workers from industries including finance, telecommunications, and trade. Abidjan’s rental market is competitive, while being less expensive than Lagos in absolute terms.

3. Cape Town, South Africa — Rent Index: 20.8

Cape Town is ranked third with a Rent Index of 20.8 because of its appeal as a desired lifestyle destination and an economic hub on a worldwide scale. Its scenic coastline, international schools, and strong tourism sector draw residents from across South Africa and abroad. Rents are driven up by this increased demand as well as a lack of reasonably priced accommodation in the city centre and along the Atlantic coast. Because of the close proximity to beaches, attractions, and job centres, many renters in this area are ready to spend more.

4. Addis Ababa, Ethiopia — Rent Index: 21.3

With a Rent Index of 21.3, Addis Ababa is the fourth most expensive city in Africa to rent a home. Ethiopia’s capital keeps growing quickly because of large-scale building projects and foreign investments in the fields of diplomacy and infrastructure. Because it is home to several embassies and the African Union, there is a high demand for accommodation, especially high-quality apartments and gated communities.

5. Kigali, Rwanda — Rent Index: 16.1

Kigali’s consistently rising cost of living is reflected in its Rent Index of 16.1. Professionals and foreign workers are drawn to Rwanda’s capital because of its excellent urban planning, safety and cleanliness. However, particularly in places like Kacyiru, Kimihurura, and Nyarutarama, the rising demand for contemporary flats, dependable utilities and safe neighbourhoods has surpassed the supply.

6. Windhoek, Namibia — Rent Index: 15.0

With a Rent Index of 15.0, Windhoek is ranked sixth on the continent for rental costs. It attracts workers from all around Namibia because it is the nation’s capital and commercial hub. Prices are driven higher by the scarcity of official rental properties, particularly in wealthy neighbourhoods like Klein Windhoek, Olympia, and Eros. Tenants frequently compete for fewer available apartments due to a decreased total population but a consistent demand for high-quality living places.

7. Johannesburg, South Africa — Rent Index: ~13.2

Johannesburg is the biggest economic centre in South Africa, as evidenced by its Rent Index of about 13.2. Residents from all around the region are drawn to the city by its diverse economy and job opportunities. However, rental prices remain very high due to dense urban populations and a persistent desire for central and northern districts (such as Sandton, Rosebank, and Fourways). Even while Johannesburg might be less expensive than Cape Town in some areas, the city’s high demand keeps the rental market pricey.

8. Pretoria, South Africa — Rent Index: ~12.8

Pretoria comes up at number eight with an approximate Rent Index of 12.8. It is home to several government agencies, diplomatic embassies, and international organisations in its capacity as South Africa’s administrative capital. Strong demand for housing is maintained by this consistent group of renters, which includes business executives, international employees, and civil personnel, especially in Pretoria East and Brooklyn. Rental costs remain stable in key districts due to little housing expansion.

9. Casablanca, Morocco — Rent Index: ~11.2

Casablanca is the most populated and economically important city in Morocco, as evidenced by its Rent Index of about 11.2. Casablanca is a hub for trade, manufacturing, and finance that attracts both investors and job seekers. Its housing market is competitive, particularly in areas like Maarif, Gauthier, and Anfa that are close to commercial zones. Desirable central locations raise average rents even with less expensive options on the outskirts.

10. Rabat, Morocco — Rent Index: 12.4

With a Rent Index of 12.4, Rabat, the political and administrative centre of Morocco, comes in at number 10. The demand for rental housing is influenced by university students, government employees, and diplomats. Rabat is a planned city with excellent amenities and infrastructure, which draws renters prepared to pay extra for high-quality homes, especially close to the city centre or along important transit routes.

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