Top 5 African cities with the most affordable rent at the start of 2025

In 2025, low rent is more than a financial comfort; it is a lifeline for millions of people residing in African cities.

Business Insider Africa presents the top 5 African cities with the least expensive rent at the start of 2025.
This list is courtesy of Numbeo.
Alexandria ranks number 1 on the list.

As urbanization spreads across the continent, the cost of housing has become a pressing concern, with high rents impeding economic growth, social fairness, and sustainable urban development.

Keeping rents low in African cities is critical to creating dynamic, inclusive, and resilient urban communities.

Low rent enables households to better manage their budget, freeing up funds for necessities like food, healthcare, and education.

Cities may improve local economies by lowering housing costs, giving citizens more spare money to spend and invest.

Affordable rent also promotes small business growth, since entrepreneurs may devote more finances to their companies rather than high housing costs.

Affordable rent is critical for workers, especially those in the low- and middle-income groups, to retain financial stability and productivity.

Lower housing expenses allow families to escape the stress and volatility that comes with trying to make ends meet.

Additionally, low rents diminish demand for these risky housing situations, supporting orderly urban growth.

With that said, here are the 5 African cities with the lowest rent at the start of 2025, according to Numbeo.