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Mauritania's rental market shows significant disparities between urban centers and inland regions, with Nouakchott leading rent prices.
Average rents in Nouakchott range from 5,500 MRU ($139) for basic apartments outside the center to 28,229 MRU ($710) for furnished high-end properties in prime areas. Coastal locations command premium prices due to expatriate demand, while inland regions offer more affordable options with correspondingly lower rental yields that typically range between 0.8% and 3.5% annually.
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Mauritania's rental market is concentrated in Nouakchott and coastal areas, with significant price gaps between urban and rural regions.
Current rental yields remain low by international standards, reflecting the country's developing property investment landscape.
| Property Type | City Center Rent (MRU/month) | Outside Center Rent (MRU/month) | USD Equivalent |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1-Bedroom Apartment | 7,200 | 5,500 | $139-$182 |
| 3-Bedroom Apartment | 23,882 | 15,000-18,000 | $380-$603 |
| Furnished 85m² Apartment | 28,229 | 18,000-22,000 | $455-$710 |
| Commercial Properties | Premium rates | Lower demand | Varies significantly |
| Short-term Rentals | $20-112/night | Limited availability | $600-3,360/month |
What's the current average rent across different types of properties in Mauritania?
As of September 2025, Mauritania's rental market shows clear distinctions between property types and locations.
In Nouakchott's city center, a 1-bedroom apartment averages 7,200 MRU ($182) monthly, while the same property outside the center costs around 5,500 MRU ($139). For larger accommodations, 3-bedroom apartments in prime areas command 23,882 MRU ($603) per month.
Furnished properties carry significant premiums, with an 85-square-meter furnished apartment in expensive Nouakchott neighborhoods reaching 28,229 MRU ($710) monthly. Commercial properties follow a different pricing structure, with centrally located shops and offices commanding rates well above residential equivalents, though specific data remains limited due to market opacity.
Short-term rental properties through platforms like Airbnb show wide variation, with median monthly earnings around $228, while best-in-class properties can achieve up to $710 monthly. Daily rates typically range from $20 to $112 depending on property quality and seasonal demand.
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How does the rent vary between major cities, coastal areas, and inland regions?
Mauritania's rental market demonstrates significant geographic disparities driven by economic activity and expatriate presence.
Nouakchott and Nouadhibou represent the country's highest-rent markets, particularly in city centers and coastal neighborhoods where international organizations and corporations concentrate their operations. These coastal areas experience consistently higher rent increases due to their appeal to expatriates and foreign workers who can afford premium pricing.
Coastal regions beyond the main cities still command higher rents than inland equivalents due to their accessibility and infrastructure advantages. Property appreciation rates also outpace inland regions, creating a widening gap in rental costs between coastal and interior locations.
Inland regions offer significantly more affordable rental options but suffer from lower market transparency and slower appreciation rates. These areas typically serve local Mauritanian populations with limited foreign demand, resulting in rental prices that can be 40-60% lower than comparable coastal properties.
The disparity becomes particularly pronounced when comparing furnished properties, where coastal areas can command premiums of 80-100% over inland equivalents due to the higher standards expected by international tenants.
What's the breakdown of rent depending on property size and surface area?
| Property Size | City Center (MRU/month) | Outside Center (MRU/month) | Inland Regions (MRU/month) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1-Bedroom Apartment | 7,200 ($182) | 5,500 ($139) | 3,500-4,500 ($88-114) |
| 2-Bedroom Apartment | 12,000-15,000 ($303-379) | 9,000-11,000 ($227-278) | 6,000-8,000 ($152-202) |
| 3-Bedroom Apartment | 23,882 ($603) | 16,000-20,000 ($404-505) | 10,000-14,000 ($253-354) |
| 85m² Furnished Apartment | 28,229 ($710) | 20,000-24,000 ($505-606) | 15,000-18,000 ($379-455) |
| Large House (4+ bedrooms) | 35,000-50,000 ($884-1,263) | 25,000-35,000 ($631-884) | 18,000-25,000 ($455-631) |
| Studio/Small Apartment | 5,000-6,500 ($126-164) | 3,500-4,500 ($88-114) | 2,500-3,500 ($63-88) |
| Commercial Space (per m²) | 150-300 MRU ($3.79-7.58) | 80-150 MRU ($2.02-3.79) | 50-100 MRU ($1.26-2.53) |
What are the total costs for tenants including fees, taxes, and utilities?
Tenants in Mauritania face additional costs beyond base rent that significantly impact their total housing expenses.
Utility costs typically add $40-95 monthly to rental expenses, covering electricity, water, and basic internet services. These utilities are rarely included in rent and must be budgeted separately, with air conditioning during hot months potentially pushing electricity bills toward the higher end of this range.
Security deposits standard across the market require 1-2 months' rent upfront, creating a substantial initial cash requirement for tenants. This deposit structure applies to both residential and commercial properties, though commercial leases may require additional guarantees.
From a tax perspective, tenants primarily pay gross rent without direct tax obligations, as landlords bear responsibility for rental income taxation at 8% for residential properties and higher rates for commercial spaces. However, tenants should budget for occasional maintenance fees and service charges in managed buildings.
Administrative fees for lease agreements and property registration can add 2-5% of annual rent to initial costs, particularly for expatriate tenants who may require additional documentation and processing.
What does the mortgage landscape look like, and how does it affect rental pricing?
Mauritania's restrictive mortgage market significantly influences rental demand and pricing dynamics.
As of September 2025, the Central Bank maintains its key rate at 6%, down from 7% earlier in the year. However, practical mortgage rates for homebuyers reach 16.4% through local banks, creating substantial barriers to homeownership for most Mauritanians.
These high borrowing costs effectively push potential homebuyers into the rental market, sustaining high demand for rental properties particularly in urban centers like Nouakchott and Nouadhibou. The limited mortgage accessibility means that most property purchases occur through cash transactions, concentrating ownership among wealthy investors.
The restrictive lending environment creates a supply-demand imbalance favoring landlords, who can maintain higher rental rates due to limited alternative housing options for middle-class families. This dynamic is particularly pronounced in coastal areas where expatriate demand compounds local rental pressure.
Foreign buyers face even greater challenges accessing local financing, typically requiring full cash purchases or financing from international sources, which further limits housing supply and supports rental market pricing power.
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What are some example rental prices for apartments, houses, and commercial properties?
Concrete rental examples across Mauritania's property categories provide clear market benchmarks for potential tenants and investors.
For residential apartments, a basic studio or small apartment in city areas rents for $139-$182 monthly, while comparable properties inland cost $90-$120. Mid-range 2-bedroom apartments in Nouakchott's desirable neighborhoods command $300-$400 monthly, with coastal locations adding 20-30% premiums.
High-end 3-bedroom apartments in prime Nouakchott areas reach $603-$710 monthly, particularly for furnished units with modern amenities. These properties typically target expatriate families and successful local professionals who value proximity to international schools and business districts.
For houses, larger 4-bedroom properties in exclusive neighborhoods can reach $884-$1,263 monthly, while similar houses in secondary locations cost $631-$884. Coastal houses with ocean access command significant premiums above these baseline rates.
Commercial properties show the widest variation, with prime retail spaces in central Nouakchott reaching $3.79-7.58 per square meter monthly, while secondary commercial locations cost $2.02-3.79 per square meter. Office spaces follow similar patterns, with modern buildings commanding higher rates than older commercial stock.
What's the typical renter profile in Mauritania, and how does it differ between property types?
Mauritania's rental market serves distinct demographic segments with varying housing preferences and financial capabilities.
In cities and coastal areas, the renter profile includes a significant portion of expatriates working for NGOs, diplomatic missions, and international corporations. These tenants typically seek furnished, higher-standard accommodations and can afford premium pricing for convenience and location. Middle-class Mauritanian professionals also compete for quality urban housing near employment centers.
High-end furnished apartments primarily attract foreign professionals and wealthy Mauritanians who prioritize modern amenities and prime locations. These renters often require short-term flexibility and are willing to pay premiums for turnkey accommodations.
In inland regions and smaller towns, the rental market predominantly serves Mauritanian households, often larger families seeking affordable housing options. These tenants typically prefer longer lease terms and basic accommodations without luxury features, focusing on value over amenities.
Commercial property tenants vary significantly, with international businesses and local enterprises competing for prime retail and office spaces in Nouakchott, while smaller local businesses dominate inland commercial rentals. The foreign business presence drives demand for modern, well-located commercial spaces with reliable infrastructure.
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We did some research and made this infographic to help you quickly compare rental yields of the major cities in Mauritania versus those in neighboring countries. It provides a clear view of how this country positions itself as a real estate investment destination, which might interest you if you're planning to invest there.
What are the current vacancy rates, and how do they differ by area and property category?
Vacancy rates across Mauritania's rental market reflect the economic disparities between different regions and property segments.
In Nouakchott's short-term rental market, Airbnb data shows median occupancy rates of only 18%, indicating high vacancy levels for typical properties. However, top-tier properties achieve 53% occupancy rates, demonstrating the market's preference for quality accommodations.
High-end coastal properties experience lower vacancy rates due to consistent expatriate and business traveler demand. These properties benefit from international organizations' housing allowances and corporate relocation budgets, maintaining more stable occupancy throughout the year.
Inland regions and older property stock face significantly higher vacancy rates, particularly outside main employment centers. These areas lack the foreign demand that drives coastal markets and depend entirely on local economic conditions, which can be variable.
Commercial properties show similar patterns, with prime locations in Nouakchott maintaining lower vacancy rates while secondary commercial areas struggle with tenant retention. The limited number of international businesses constrains demand for premium commercial space, creating a two-tier market between prime and secondary locations.
What kind of yields are landlords currently achieving, and how do they differ between property classes?
Mauritanian rental yields remain below international standards, reflecting the country's developing property investment landscape.
Gross rental yields across residential properties typically range from 0.8% to 3.5% annually, significantly lower than other African urban centers and far below global investment benchmarks. These yields reflect the gap between property purchase prices and achievable rental income in the local market.
Coastal and international-focused properties generally achieve yields toward the higher end of this range due to their ability to command premium rents from expatriate tenants. Properties targeting local markets typically fall toward the lower end of the yield spectrum.
Commercial properties often deliver higher yields than residential equivalents, though comprehensive data remains limited due to market opacity. Prime commercial locations with reliable international tenants can achieve yields above the residential range, while secondary commercial properties may underperform residential yields.
Yield performance varies significantly between property classes, with older stock and inland properties producing the lowest returns, while modern coastal properties and premium commercial spaces deliver the market's best yields. However, even the best-performing properties rarely exceed yields available in more developed African markets.
How have rents and yields changed compared to 5 years ago and compared to last year?
Mauritania's rental market has experienced modest but consistent growth over the past five years, with significant variations between property segments.
Since 2020, urban area rents have risen 2-4% annually, with coastal and city center locations leading appreciation rates. This growth has been driven by continued urbanization and steady expatriate demand, particularly in Nouakchott and Nouadhibou where international presence remains strong.
Rental yields have remained largely flat or experienced slight declines due to property price increases outpacing rent growth. This dynamic reflects the broader challenge of limited rental income growth relative to property value appreciation, particularly in prime coastal locations.
Compared to 2024, rents showed modest increases in 2025, growing 1-3% in urban markets while remaining relatively stable in inland regions. However, yield performance has been challenged by inflation, resulting in negative real returns for many landlords when adjusted for purchasing power.
The five-year trend shows increasing divergence between coastal/urban markets and inland regions, with the former maintaining steady growth while interior areas have seen minimal rental appreciation. This pattern reflects the country's economic concentration in coastal areas and limited development in inland regions.
What are the forecasts for rents and yields over the next 1 year, 5 years, and 10 years?
Future rental market performance in Mauritania will largely depend on economic diversification efforts and infrastructure development outcomes.
For 2026, marginal rent increases of 1-3% are expected, primarily concentrated in urban and coastal areas. Yields may continue declining as property prices are likely to grow slightly faster than rental income, particularly in coastal regions where international investment interest remains focused.
The medium-term outlook over five years shows potential for accelerated rental growth if urbanization trends continue and foreign investment increases. Coastal areas may see stronger performance driven by tourism development and international business expansion, while inland regions will likely experience slower growth tied to agricultural and mining sector development.
Long-term projections over ten years depend heavily on Mauritania's success in economic diversification and infrastructure improvements. If the country successfully develops its tourism potential and attracts more international businesses, coastal rental markets could experience significant appreciation. However, yields will depend on whether mortgage market reforms improve housing accessibility.
The forecast assumes continued government focus on coastal development and gradual improvement in inland infrastructure, though political stability and economic policy continuity remain key risk factors for rental market performance.
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How do Mauritania's rental prices and yields compare with other major African and global cities?
Mauritania's rental market occupies a unique position within the African property landscape, offering lower absolute prices but challenging yield dynamics.
Rental prices in Nouakchott remain significantly lower than major African cities like Dakar, Abidjan, or Accra when measured in absolute terms. However, when compared against local income levels, Mauritanian rents represent a substantial burden, with price-to-income ratios reaching 14.96 in Nouakchott.
Rental yields in Mauritania consistently underperform regional comparisons, falling well below yields available in Dakar, Abidjan, and Accra. This performance gap makes Mauritania less attractive for pure rental yield investments compared to other West African markets.
Compared to global cities like London or Dubai, Mauritanian rental yields are substantially lower, reflecting the country's developing economy and limited international investor interest. While absolute rental prices are much lower than global centers, the yield disadvantage makes Mauritania challenging for international property investors seeking income returns.
The affordability challenge for local residents is more severe than in many regional peers, as rental costs consume a larger proportion of local incomes despite lower absolute prices. This dynamic reflects Mauritania's economic development stage and limited housing supply in desirable areas.
Conclusion
This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial advice. Readers are advised to consult with a qualified professional before making any investment decisions. We do not assume any liability for actions taken based on the information provided.
Mauritania's rental market presents a mixed picture for investors and residents, with coastal areas offering stability but limited yields, while inland regions provide affordability at the cost of lower demand.
For property investors, the market requires careful consideration of location and tenant profile, as yields remain below regional standards despite steady rental growth in prime areas.
Sources
- TheAfricanVestor - Mauritania Price Forecasts
- Expatistan - Cost of Living in Nouakchott
- AirROI - Nouakchott Short-term Rental Report
- TheAfricanVestor - Mauritania Real Estate Forecasts
- Airbnb - Mauritania Listings
- Exiap - Cost of Living Guide Mauritania
- ENS Africa - Africa Tax Brief
- Financial Afrik - Mauritania Central Bank Rate Adjustment
- TheAfricanVestor - Mauritania Property Investment Guide
- Global Property Guide - Mauritania Price Changes