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Property prices in Cameroon are set to rise moderately throughout 2025, with major urban centers like Douala and Yaoundé leading the charge. The Cameroonian residential market shows strong fundamentals driven by urbanization, infrastructure development, and increasing foreign investment flows.
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Property prices in Cameroon are projected to increase by 3% to 7% annually in 2025, with Douala and Yaoundé leading the growth.
The market benefits from government housing initiatives, foreign investment growth of 12% annually since 2020, and ongoing urbanization, though financing limitations remain a challenge.
| City | Price Range (XAF per sqm) | Rental Yield |
|---|---|---|
| Douala (City Center) | 1,160,000 - 1,890,000 | 5.5% - 7% |
| Douala (Peripheral) | 570,000+ | 5.5% - 7% |
| Yaoundé (City Center) | 610,000 - 1,100,000 | 6.1% - 8.8% |
| Yaoundé (Suburban) | 412,000 | 6.1% - 8.8% |
| Kribi (Secondary City) | 190,000 - 350,000 | N/A |
| Expected Annual Growth | 3% - 7% | Stable |
Are property prices in Cameroon expected to rise in 2025?
Property prices in Cameroon are projected to rise moderately in 2025, with annual increases of 3% to 7% expected across major urban centers.
Douala and Yaoundé are leading this upward trend, driven by sustained urbanization rates of 56.5% and ongoing infrastructure development projects. The Cameroonian residential market benefits from a national housing deficit that continues to support demand growth.
Foreign direct investment in Cameroonian real estate has grown at approximately 12% per year since 2020, adding significant momentum to price appreciation. Government initiatives, including the construction of 10,000 social housing units, further support market stability and growth expectations.
As of September 2025, early indicators suggest that these projections are materializing, with Douala city center prices already reaching XAF 1,160,000 to XAF 1,890,000 per square meter. The consistent demand from professionals, expatriates, and government workers in both capitals provides a solid foundation for continued price growth.
It's something we develop in our Cameroon property pack.
Which cities in Cameroon will see the highest property price increases?
Douala and Yaoundé are positioned to experience the highest property price increases in Cameroon during 2025, both targeting the 3% to 7% annual growth range.
Douala, as the economic capital, benefits from concentrated business activity, port operations, and expatriate demand. The city center residential market commands premium prices between XAF 1,160,000 to XAF 1,890,000 per square meter, with rental yields reaching 5.5% to 7%.
Yaoundé shows strong growth potential driven by government operations, NGO presence, and embassy activities. Current residential prices range from XAF 412,000 to XAF 1,100,000 per square meter, with rental yields spanning 6.1% to 8.8%. The political capital's stable institutional demand provides consistent market support.
Secondary cities like Kribi offer more moderate growth prospects, with prices currently at XAF 190,000 to XAF 350,000 per square meter. These locations attract investors seeking affordability and tourism-related opportunities, though growth rates typically lag behind the major urban centers.
Regional infrastructure investments and government development initiatives particularly favor the Douala-Yaoundé corridor, making these cities the primary beneficiaries of the anticipated price appreciation.
What factors are driving property price increases in Cameroon?
Urbanization stands as the primary driver of property price increases in Cameroon, with the country's 56.5% urbanization rate creating sustained demand for residential properties in major cities.
Infrastructure development projects significantly boost property values, particularly in areas benefiting from road improvements, utilities expansion, and transportation connectivity enhancements. Government initiatives, including the 10,000 social housing units project, demonstrate official commitment to addressing housing shortages while supporting market growth.
Foreign investment flows have accelerated remarkably, growing at 12% annually since 2020. This international capital brings both direct property purchases and development financing, creating upward pressure on prices across desirable locations.
Policy incentives further stimulate market activity through measures such as stamp duty exemptions and transfer tax reductions for qualifying buyers. These government policies reduce transaction costs and encourage both domestic and foreign investment participation.
Economic factors including population growth, rising middle-class income levels, and increasing business activity in Douala and Yaoundé create fundamental demand that outpaces current supply levels, resulting in the projected price appreciation.
How much do properties cost per square meter in major Cameroonian cities?
| Location | Price Range (XAF per sqm) | Market Segment |
|---|---|---|
| Douala City Center | 1,160,000 - 1,890,000 | Premium residential |
| Douala Peripheral Areas | 570,000+ | Standard residential |
| Yaoundé City Center | 610,000 - 1,100,000 | Premium residential |
| Yaoundé Suburban | 412,000 | Affordable residential |
| Kribi | 190,000 - 350,000 | Secondary city |
| Regional Average | 300,000 - 800,000 | Mixed segments |
What rental yields can investors expect in Cameroon?
Rental yields in Cameroon's major cities offer attractive returns compared to many international markets, with Yaoundé leading at 6.1% to 8.8% annually.
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Douala offers rental yields between 5.5% and 7%, with city center apartments typically achieving the higher end due to strong demand from professionals and expatriates. The economic capital's business concentration and port activities create consistent rental demand throughout the year.
Yaoundé's superior yield range of 6.1% to 8.8% reflects the political capital's stable tenant base of government workers, NGO staff, and embassy personnel. This institutional demand provides reliable rental income streams with lower vacancy risks compared to purely commercial markets.
These yields compare favorably to many African markets and significantly exceed returns available in developed countries. The combination of moderate property prices and strong rental demand creates compelling investment mathematics for both local and international investors.
Factors supporting these yields include limited supply in prime locations, growing urban populations, and increasing purchasing power among the professional class in both major cities.
Are there any challenges that could affect property price growth?
Limited mortgage financing represents the most significant challenge to sustained property price growth in Cameroon, with only 17% to 23% of purchases using loan financing.
This heavy reliance on cash transactions restricts the pool of potential buyers and limits the market's ability to absorb higher prices. The underdeveloped mortgage market constrains demand growth and creates vulnerability to economic fluctuations affecting cash availability.
High vacancy rates in certain urban developments pose another risk, particularly in areas where supply has outpaced immediate demand. Oversupply in specific neighborhoods could pressure prices and reduce rental yields for investors in affected locations.
Economic factors including currency stability, inflation rates, and overall economic growth directly impact property affordability and investment attractiveness. Any significant economic disruption could temporarily slow the projected price appreciation.
Infrastructure bottlenecks, while improving, still affect property accessibility and desirability in some areas. Properties lacking reliable utilities, road access, or security may experience slower price growth compared to well-connected locations.
What government initiatives support the property market?
The Cameroonian government actively promotes property market development through the ambitious 10,000 social housing units construction project, targeting housing shortage reduction across major urban areas.
Fiscal incentives play a crucial role in supporting market activity, with exemptions from stamp duty and transfer taxes available to qualifying property buyers. These measures reduce transaction costs and encourage both domestic and foreign investment participation.
Urban development initiatives focus on infrastructure improvements, including road construction, utilities expansion, and public transportation development. These projects directly enhance property values in benefiting areas while supporting overall market growth.
Foreign investment policies have been streamlined to attract international capital, with specific provisions supporting real estate development projects. The government recognizes foreign investment as essential for addressing housing deficits and achieving urbanization goals.
Regulatory frameworks continue evolving to improve property rights protection, transaction transparency, and market efficiency. These institutional improvements build investor confidence and support sustained market growth.
It's something we develop in our Cameroon property pack.
How has foreign investment affected the Cameroonian property market?
Foreign investment in Cameroonian real estate has accelerated dramatically, growing at approximately 12% annually since 2020 and becoming a major driver of market expansion.
We did some research and made this infographic to help you quickly compare rental yields of the major cities in Cameroon 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.
International capital has primarily targeted premium residential developments in Douala and Yaoundé, driving up prices in desirable neighborhoods while improving overall construction quality and project standards. Foreign developers bring advanced construction techniques and international design standards to local markets.
This investment flow has created upward pressure on property prices, particularly in city centers and well-connected suburban areas. Foreign buyers often pay premium prices for quality properties, establishing new price benchmarks that influence overall market valuations.
The increased international interest has also attracted supporting services including property management companies, real estate advisory firms, and financing institutions, creating a more sophisticated market ecosystem.
Foreign investment concentration in specific areas has led to localized price appreciation, with some neighborhoods experiencing rapid transformation and gentrification driven by international buyer preferences and purchasing power.
Which property types offer the best investment potential?
City center apartments in Douala and Yaoundé offer the strongest investment potential, combining capital appreciation prospects with attractive rental yields between 5.5% and 8.8%.
- Premium residential apartments in business districts benefit from steady demand from professionals, expatriates, and government workers
- Mid-range housing in established neighborhoods provides balanced risk-return profiles with consistent rental demand
- New developments in emerging suburban areas offer higher appreciation potential as infrastructure improves
- Properties near major infrastructure projects benefit from improved connectivity and area development
- Residential units in mixed-use developments provide diversified income streams and reduced vacancy risks
Suburban properties in growing neighborhoods present compelling value propositions, offering lower entry costs with strong appreciation potential as urbanization continues. These areas particularly benefit from infrastructure improvements and expanding city boundaries.
Properties in secondary cities like Kribi provide affordable entry points for new investors, though growth rates typically lag behind major urban centers. These locations suit investors seeking diversification and long-term appreciation rather than immediate high returns.
It's something we develop in our Cameroon property pack.
What should investors consider before buying property in Cameroon?
Location analysis stands as the most critical factor, with properties in Douala and Yaoundé city centers commanding premium prices and offering superior rental yields compared to peripheral areas.
Infrastructure access significantly impacts property value and rental potential. Investors should prioritize properties with reliable electricity, water supply, road access, and security provisions, as these factors directly affect tenant demand and property appreciation.
Financing options require careful evaluation, given that only 17% to 23% of purchases use mortgage financing. Most investors need substantial cash reserves, making financial planning essential for successful property acquisition.
Market timing considerations include current price levels, expected infrastructure developments, and supply pipeline in target areas. Understanding local development plans helps identify areas poised for future growth and price appreciation.
Legal due diligence remains crucial for foreign investors, including property title verification, ownership transfer procedures, and tax obligations. Professional legal assistance ensures compliance with local regulations and protects investment interests.
How do Cameroon property prices compare to neighboring countries?
Cameroon property prices remain competitive within the Central African region, offering attractive value propositions compared to many neighboring markets.
Douala residential prices of XAF 1,160,000 to XAF 1,890,000 per square meter position the city as moderately priced compared to major regional centers. The economic capital offers better infrastructure and business opportunities than many comparable cities in the region.
Yaoundé's price range of XAF 412,000 to XAF 1,100,000 per square meter provides excellent value for a national capital, particularly considering the city's political stability and institutional presence. Government worker demand creates rental market stability superior to many regional alternatives.
Secondary cities like Kribi, with prices at XAF 190,000 to XAF 350,000 per square meter, offer some of the most affordable property options in the region while providing access to coastal amenities and tourism potential.
The combination of moderate pricing, improving infrastructure, and government support initiatives positions Cameroon favorably against regional competitors for international investors seeking African real estate exposure.
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.
The Cameroonian property market shows strong fundamentals for 2025, with projected price increases of 3% to 7% supported by urbanization, infrastructure development, and foreign investment growth.
While challenges like limited mortgage financing and localized oversupply exist, the overall market outlook remains positive for investors willing to conduct thorough due diligence and focus on prime locations in Douala and Yaoundé.
Sources
- Statista - Cameroon Residential Real Estate Market
- BambooRoutes - Average Price per Square Meter Cameroon
- SimTrade - Cameroonian Real Estate Market
- BambooRoutes - Average Property Price Douala
- The AfricanVestor - Average Price per Square Meter Douala
- Numbeo - Property Investment in Douala
- The AfricanVestor - Average Rental Yield Cameroon
- The AfricanVestor - Average Price per Square Meter Yaoundé