Top 10 Most Expensive African Cities for Rent in 2026

A report by Fortren & Company reveals that the average annual rent for a high-end two-bedroom apartment in Africa's most expensive rental market exceeds $40,000 in 2026. The report analyzed rental costs across 10 major African cities, selected for their economic significance and rental market maturity.

Nairobi, Kenya, ranks 10th with an average annual rent of $10,700, featuring affluent neighborhoods like Runda and Karen. Cairo, Egypt, follows in 9th place with an average rent of $13,899, highlighting areas such as New Cairo and Zamalek.

Douala, Cameroon, ranks 8th with an average rent of $14,705, focusing on neighborhoods like Bonanjo and Bonapriso. The report underscores a growing housing challenge in Africa, with a population increase from 418 million in 1975 to an estimated 1.53 billion in 2025, and a housing deficit exceeding 53 million units, further straining rental markets.