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As we reach mid-2025, Cameroon's property market is showing clear signs of upward momentum, with prices rising across major urban centers. Property prices in Cameroon are experiencing steady growth, driven by rapid urbanization, infrastructure development, and increasing foreign investment, particularly in cities like Douala and Yaoundé where annual price increases are projected between 3% to 7%.
If you want to go deeper, you can check our pack of documents related to the real estate market in Cameroon, based on reliable facts and data, not opinions or rumors.
Property prices in Cameroon are rising moderately in 2025, with urban areas like Douala and Yaoundé seeing annual increases of 3-7% driven by urbanization and economic growth.
The residential real estate market is projected to grow by 5.04% annually through 2029, reaching a market volume of US$354 billion, making it an attractive investment destination despite challenges like political instability in some regions.
| Indicator | Current Status (June 2025) | Forecast/Trend |
|---|---|---|
| Average Price Growth | 3-7% annually in major cities | Expected to continue through 2025-2026 |
| City Center Apartment Price | $1,851/m² (1,100,000 XAF/m²) | Rising due to limited supply |
| Rental Yields | 6.1% to 8.8% | Stable with slight increases expected |
| GDP Growth | 4.3% (2024), 4.5% (2025) | Sustained growth supporting real estate |
| Urbanization Rate | 56.5% of population | Expected to reach 70% by 2050 |
| Housing Deficit | 2.5 million units in urban areas | Government initiatives addressing shortage |
| Mortgage Interest Rate | Around 13% for individuals | Relatively stable |
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.
How much have property prices increased in Cameroon recently?
Property prices in Cameroon have been rising steadily, with urban areas experiencing the most significant growth.
As of June 2025, residential property prices in major cities like Douala and Yaoundé have increased by 3% to 7% compared to 2024. This growth aligns with analyst predictions and reflects the ongoing urbanization trend that's driving demand in these economic hubs.
Luxury properties in urban centers have seen even stronger appreciation, with prices rising 4% to 6% in 2024 alone. These premium properties benefit from their exclusivity and high demand from both local affluent buyers and foreign investors seeking quality real estate in Cameroon's most developed cities.
The average price for city center apartments now stands at approximately $1,851 per square meter (1,100,000 XAF/m²), while properties outside city centers cost around $694 per square meter (412,000 XAF/m²). For a typical 80m² three-bedroom apartment in the city center, buyers can expect to pay around $148,080 (88 million XAF).
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Which areas in Cameroon are seeing the biggest property price increases?
Several cities and neighborhoods across Cameroon are experiencing significant property value growth.
Douala, as Cameroon's economic capital, continues to lead price appreciation with an 8% year-over-year increase in real estate transactions in 2024. High-end districts like Bonapriso and Bonanjo attract both local and foreign investors, driving prices upward through sustained demand for quality properties.
Yaoundé, the political capital, follows closely with similar growth patterns. Emerging neighborhoods like Nkolbisson and Tsinga are seeing rapid development due to new infrastructure projects and residential zones. In specific areas like Biyem-Assi, land prices reached 74,000 XAF/m² in 2023, while Nkolndongo offered more affordable options at 36,500 XAF/m².
Kribi stands out as an emerging hotspot, with its residential sector growing at 5.04% annually. The ongoing Kribi Deep Seaport expansion, funded by China Eximbank and starting in early 2025, has already created over 300 direct jobs and strengthened property values. The government's push to establish Kribi as a business hub through projects like the Kribi Industrial Zone continues to boost investor confidence.
Bonamoussadi in Douala is experiencing rapid gentrification with increasing rental yields driven by an influx of young professionals. Similarly, student cities like Dschang are seeing rising property prices due to strong rental demand from the educational sector.
What are the current mortgage interest rates in Cameroon?
| Borrower Type | Interest Rate Range | Recent Changes |
|---|---|---|
| Individual borrowers | 13-17% | Increased 3.2% between Q1-Q2 2023 |
| SMEs | 11-12% | Increased 1.43% in 2023 |
| Large enterprises | 7-8% | Increased 0.99% in 2023 |
| Benchmark rate (BEAC) | 5% | Stable as of 2025 |
| Microfinance institutions | 15-20% | Tax exemptions introduced in 2018 |
| Crédit Foncier (CFC) | 5% (promotional) | Special rates for social housing |
| 20-year fixed mortgage | 13.05% average | Higher than regional average |
Which property types are experiencing the fastest price growth?
Different property types in Cameroon are seeing varying levels of price appreciation based on market demand.
Urban apartments, particularly in city centers and new developments, are experiencing the fastest price increases. These properties appeal to professionals and expatriates seeking modern amenities, security, and convenient locations near essential services like schools, hospitals, and shopping centers.
Land in developing peri-urban areas represents another fast-growing segment. As infrastructure improves in areas like Nkolndongo, affordable land parcels are seeing increased transactions and price appreciation. Investors recognize the potential for future development as these areas become more accessible.
Detached houses are experiencing price growth driven by rising construction costs. With the average cost to build a house at 41 million XAF ($66,000), ranging from 15 million XAF for basic rural homes to 90 million XAF for upper-middle-class urban properties, new builds are becoming increasingly expensive due to inflation and material costs.
Mixed-use developments combining residential and commercial spaces represent a growing trend. These properties offer convenience and efficiency, attracting both investors and end-users who value the ability to live and work in the same complex.
More details about property types and investment opportunities are available in our Cameroon property pack.
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What is driving property price increases in Cameroon?
Multiple factors are contributing to the upward pressure on property prices across Cameroon.
Rapid urbanization stands as the primary driver, with 56.5% of Cameroon's population now living in urban areas, expected to reach 70% by 2050. This massive rural-to-urban migration creates sustained demand for housing in cities, particularly as 65% of all real estate transactions occur in Douala and Yaoundé alone.
Economic growth provides fundamental support for the market, with GDP projected to grow 4.3% in 2024 and 4.5% in 2025. This sustained economic expansion, averaging 4% annually over the next five years, increases disposable incomes and strengthens purchasing power for property buyers.
Infrastructure development plays a crucial role in boosting property values. Government investments in roads, utilities, and transport networks make previously inaccessible areas attractive for development. The 35 billion CFA franc investment in transport projects exemplifies this commitment to improving connectivity.
Foreign investment continues to flow into Cameroon's real estate sector, attracted by the country's strategic location in Central Africa and government policies that have simplified property ownership for international buyers. This influx of capital supports price increases and market stability.
How do inflation rates affect property affordability in Cameroon?
Inflation significantly impacts both property prices and affordability for buyers in Cameroon.
As of January 2025, inflation reached 5.3%, the highest level since early 2024. This increase pushes up construction costs and property prices, making housing less affordable for many buyers, especially as wage growth fails to keep pace with price increases.
The impact varies by property type and location. Construction materials have become more expensive, directly affecting the cost of new builds. The average construction cost of 41 million XAF for a house reflects these inflationary pressures, with prices ranging significantly based on location and quality.
However, real estate continues to serve as an inflation hedge for investors. With rental yields remaining high at 6.1% to 8.8%, property owners can partially offset inflation through rental income. This makes real estate attractive compared to other investment options during inflationary periods.
Over the past decade, real house prices actually fell by 13.65% after adjusting for inflation, reflecting past instability and currency weakness. However, current trends show more positive momentum, especially in urban centers where demand remains strong.
What are the property price forecasts for 2026 and beyond?
Analysts project continued growth in Cameroon's property market over the coming years.
For 2026, property prices in major urban areas are expected to maintain their current growth trajectory of 3% to 7% annually. This forecast assumes continued economic stability, ongoing urbanization, and sustained government support for the real estate sector through infrastructure development and housing policies.
The five-year outlook through 2030 remains positive, with the residential real estate market expected to grow at 4.99% annually, reaching a market volume of US$354 billion by 2029. This growth will be driven by urbanization, infrastructure improvements, and increasing demand from a growing middle class.
Looking further ahead, the 20-year projection suggests sustained demand driven by population growth and continued urbanization. However, long-term success depends critically on political stability, economic diversification, and the resolution of conflicts in certain regions.
Key cities like Douala and Yaoundé are expected to continue leading growth, with experts anticipating annual price increases of 3% to 7% through 2030, barring major political or economic shocks. Infrastructure projects and new residential zones will continue to drive demand in emerging neighborhoods.
How does political instability impact property prices in different regions?
Political tensions create significant disparities in property market performance across Cameroon.
The Anglophone regions (Northwest and Southwest) face ongoing socio-political instability that has led to falling property prices. Over 500,000 people have been internally displaced, with more than 900,000 affected since the crisis began. This mass displacement has drastically reduced demand for properties in cities like Bamenda.
In contrast, stable regions continue to see growth. The security challenges in Anglophone areas have actually redirected investment toward more stable cities like Douala, Yaoundé, and emerging markets like Kribi, creating additional demand pressure in these locations.
Investor sentiment remains divided geographically. While international and local investors actively pursue opportunities in stable regions, they avoid conflict-affected areas entirely. This concentration of investment in safe zones contributes to the price disparities between regions.
The government's efforts to address these challenges through dialogue and development projects have yet to fully restore confidence in affected regions. Until political stability returns, these areas will likely continue to see depressed property values compared to the national average.
We made this infographic to show you how property prices in Cameroon compare to other big cities across the region. It breaks down the average price per square meter in city centers, so you can see how cities stack up. It's an easy way to spot where you might get the best value for your money. We hope you like it.
What government policies are supporting the property market?
The Cameroonian government has implemented several initiatives to boost the real estate sector.
Crédit Foncier du Cameroun (CFC) leads affordable housing efforts with a 30 billion XAF injection into municipal housing construction for 2025-2030. This significant investment aims to expand affordable housing options and create construction jobs, directly addressing the urban housing deficit of 2.5 million units.
The government is developing a new national urban housing policy specifically targeting youth and new urban residents. This policy framework aims to streamline housing development and make homeownership more accessible to first-time buyers through improved financing options.
Foreign investment policies have been liberalized, with amendments to land ownership laws making it easier for international buyers to invest in Cameroonian real estate. These reforms signal the government's commitment to attracting foreign capital and expertise to develop the property market.
Infrastructure spending continues to support property values. The government's investment in roads, utilities, and transport networks enhances connectivity and makes previously underdeveloped areas attractive for real estate investment, contributing to price appreciation in emerging neighborhoods.
How do rental yields in Cameroon compare to neighboring countries?
Cameroon offers competitive rental yields that attract both local and foreign investors.
Current rental yields in Cameroon range from 6.1% to 8.8%, with some prime locations like Douala and Yaoundé achieving returns of up to 9%. City center office spaces deliver the highest returns at 10%, followed by commercial properties at 8.57% and residential rentals at 7.5%.
These yields remain attractive compared to many developed markets and demonstrate the strong rental demand driven by urbanization. The growing expatriate community and young professional demographic in major cities sustain high occupancy rates and rental prices.
Rental prices show steady growth, with projections indicating increases of 3% to 7% by the end of 2025. A typical three-bedroom house rents for approximately 125,000 XAF ($225) monthly, providing stable income streams for property investors.
The rental market benefits from the significant housing deficit and continuous urban population growth. With 56% of the population now urban and expected to reach 70% by 2050, rental demand will likely remain strong, supporting yield stability.
You can find more detailed analysis of rental yields by area in our Cameroon property pack.
Which demographics are driving property demand in Cameroon?
- Young professionals and tech workers: This growing demographic seeks modern, tech-smart apartments with energy-efficient features in urban centers like Douala and Yaoundé, driving demand for contemporary housing developments.
- The expanding middle class: With economic growth increasing disposable incomes, more Cameroonians can afford quality housing, particularly in urban centers, pushing up demand for mid-range properties.
- Returning diaspora: Cameroonians abroad invested $365 million in remittances in 2022, with many choosing real estate to maintain connections to home. The icud-diaspora platform launched by Douala specifically targets these investors.
- Students and academic communities: Cities like Dschang with significant student populations see consistent rental demand, making student housing a profitable investment segment.
- Expatriate communities: Growing numbers of foreign professionals in Douala and Yaoundé prefer modern apartments and gated communities, often developed by international companies.
- Rural-to-urban migrants: The continuous flow of people from rural areas to cities for better opportunities maintains pressure on urban housing markets.
- Energy sector workers: Development around energy projects attracts workers who need housing, creating localized demand spikes in project areas.
How does Cameroon's property market compare to regional competitors?
Cameroon's real estate market positions itself competitively within the Central and West African region.
Compared to Nigeria, Cameroon offers more affordable entry points. While Lagos and Abuja command prices around $1,800/m² for city center apartments, Douala and Yaoundé average $1,114/m². However, Nigeria's major cities offer higher rental income potential, with one-bedroom apartments renting for $1,100/month versus $403 in Cameroon.
Against Gabon, Cameroon's urban property prices are higher ($1,114/m² vs $536/m²), but this reflects Cameroon's larger, more dynamic economy and greater urbanization. The cost of living in Cameroon ($844/month) exceeds Gabon's ($662/month), but Cameroon offers more diverse investment opportunities.
Mortgage accessibility varies significantly across the region. Cameroon's average mortgage rate of 13.05% sits between Gabon's 10.76% and Nigeria's 18%, making financing moderately accessible compared to regional peers.
Cameroon's strategic advantages include its position as Central Africa's economic hub, political stability compared to some neighbors, and government efforts to attract foreign investment. These factors, combined with steady economic growth projections, make it an attractive alternative to more expensive or volatile regional markets.
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.
Property prices in Cameroon are clearly trending upward, particularly in major urban centers where demand continues to outpace supply. The combination of sustained economic growth, rapid urbanization, and government support for the real estate sector creates a favorable environment for continued price appreciation.
The answer is: Yes, property prices are going up in Cameroon. With annual increases of 3-7% in major cities and a projected market growth of 5.04% through 2029, the trend is unmistakably positive despite regional variations and challenges in conflict-affected areas.
Sources
- 14 statistics for the Cameroon real estate market in 2025 – The Africanvestor
- Yes, property prices might fall in Cameroon in 2025 – The Africanvestor
- 14 strong forecasts for real estate in Cameroon in 2025 – The Africanvestor
- Residential Real Estate - Cameroon | Market Forecast - Statista
- Cameroon - CAHF | Centre for Affordable Housing Finance Africa
- 14 strong trends for 2025 in the Cameroon property market – The Africanvestor
- Cameroon sees 3.2% hike in consumer interest rates - Business in Cameroon
- 11 strong reasons to buy property in Cameroon in 2025 – The Africanvestor