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Where are the best places to invest in Kano right now? Is the city center still the top pick, or are areas like Nassarawa, Tarauni, and Gwale gaining ground? What makes these locations attractive to both local and foreign investors?
We’re often asked these questions because we work directly with notaries, real estate agents, and clients who invest across the region. Our firsthand experience in these markets gives us unique insights into where the real opportunities lie. To save everyone from asking privately, we’ve written this article to share our knowledge broadly.
Our goal is to highlight the hottest markets in Kano and explain why they’re worth your attention in 2025.
If you have suggestions or want us to dive deeper into a specific area, let us know. You shoot an email, we answer within 24 hours.

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1) Gwarzo is gaining interest from investors for its agricultural growth and housing demand from farm workers
Gwarzo is quickly becoming a prime spot for real estate investors thanks to its thriving agricultural scene.
The Kano State Government has been pouring resources into irrigation infrastructure, especially in 2023 and 2024, to boost farming productivity. This move is not just about growing more crops; it's about ensuring food security and drawing in investors who see the potential for growth in the area.
Take the Kano CARES Project, for example. It features a new irrigation canal that lets farmers work on about 200 hectares of land, dramatically increasing agricultural output. This kind of development doesn't just help farmers; it brings more workers to Gwarzo, which in turn spikes the demand for housing.
As farm workers flock to Gwarzo for these opportunities, the need for housing goes up. While we don't have exact numbers for Gwarzo, we can look at places like Oregon, where farm workers face housing shortages. This hints that Gwarzo might be seeing a similar trend, making it a hot spot for real estate investors eager to meet the growing housing demand.
With agriculture booming in Kano State, job opportunities in this sector are likely on the rise. More jobs mean more people moving to Gwarzo, which again fuels the housing market. The mix of government backing, new infrastructure, and job growth makes Gwarzo a promising place for real estate investment.
2) Sabon Gari is attracting investors with its vibrant commercial scene and strong demand for retail spaces
Sabon Gari is a hotspot for investors because of its vibrant commercial activities and high demand for retail spaces.
Retail spaces in Sabon Gari are in high demand, with only 4.1% available for lease, the lowest on record. This scarcity makes it a prime area for investment, as businesses are eager to secure a spot in this bustling market.
Rental yields are climbing, with the average asking rent now at $24.36 per square foot. This steady increase mirrors trends in high-growth areas like the Sun Belt, showing that Sabon Gari is on par with other booming regions.
New businesses are popping up all over Sabon Gari, adding to its commercial buzz. Traders like Musa Ali, who sells children's garments and shoes, continue to thrive despite challenges, highlighting the area's resilience and ongoing business activity.
Investors are drawn to Sabon Gari for its stable returns and promising growth. The area's ability to attract and sustain new businesses is a testament to its economic vitality.
With its strong consumer interest and robust market dynamics, Sabon Gari stands out as a lucrative investment destination.
Sources: NAR Realtor, Real Estate Outlook, Business Day

We have made this infographic to give you a quick and clear snapshot of the property market in Nigeria. It highlights key facts like rental prices, yields, and property costs both in city centers and outside, so you can easily compare opportunities. We’ve done some research and also included useful insights about the country’s economy, like GDP, population, and interest rates, to help you understand the bigger picture.
3) Dawakin Tofa is gaining interest for its educational institutions and growing demand for student accommodations
Dawakin Tofa is seeing a surge in property investments, thanks to its educational institutions and the rising need for student accommodations.
Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf of Kano State is making waves with his focus on education, like distributing desks to schools. This commitment is drawing more students to the area, which means more demand for student housing.
In cities like Kano, where universities are plentiful, student housing is a hot commodity. The convenience and accessibility for students drive up rental yields, making these areas attractive for property investors.
Globally, the student accommodation market is on the rise, fueled by increasing student enrollment, especially from international students. This trend is expected to continue, with a steady rise in demand for quality housing that offers convenience and safety.
Investors are keen on areas like Dawakin Tofa because the need for student accommodations is not just a local trend. It's part of a larger global movement, making it a smart investment choice.
With the educational focus in Kano State, property investments in Dawakin Tofa are likely to keep growing, driven by the continuous influx of students seeking housing.
Sources: Kano Focus, Booking Ninjas, Grand View Research
4) Dakatsalle is attracting interest with its affordable land and potential for future residential growth
Dakatsalle is catching eyes for its affordable land prices, especially when you compare it to other parts of Kano.
In places like Jaba and Farawa Layout, plots are going for around ₦17,000,000, which really puts into perspective how affordable land in Dakatsalle is. This affordability is a big draw for potential buyers looking for a good deal.
While we don't have specific historical data for Dakatsalle, the overall trend in Kano shows rising property values. This suggests that Dakatsalle is likely part of this upward trend, making it a promising spot for future residential development.
There's also a broader picture to consider. The Programme for Infrastructure Development in Africa (PIDA) is working to boost infrastructure across the continent. This kind of development could make Dakatsalle even more appealing for residential growth, as better infrastructure often leads to increased interest in an area.
With these factors in play, Dakatsalle is becoming a place to watch for those interested in property investment. The combination of affordable prices and potential growth makes it an attractive option for buyers.
As infrastructure improves and property values rise, Dakatsalle's potential for residential development becomes even more evident. It's a place where you can get in early and possibly see great returns in the future.
Sources: Jiji, African Development Bank, Land Network
5) Kano Municipal is booming with rising property prices and growing demand for office spaces as the city's administrative center
Kano Municipal is experiencing a notable rise in property prices as it serves as the administrative core of the city.
With its status as a key administrative hub, Kano Municipal attracts businesses and investors eager to tap into its growing potential. The Kano State Government's budget reports consistently highlight this area, underscoring its importance and ongoing development. This has led to a surge in businesses setting up shop here, further boosting the demand for office spaces.
Globally, there's a trend of companies gravitating towards central administrative areas, and Kano Municipal fits this bill perfectly. The Global Real Estate Outlook 2025 backs this up, predicting a steady demand for office spaces in such prime locations. This trend is not just a local phenomenon but part of a broader global shift.
Adding to its allure, new infrastructure projects are underway in Kano Municipal, enhancing its appeal. These developments, highlighted in the 2023 Nigeria Real Estate Market Review, are key drivers of the rising property prices. The area is becoming increasingly attractive for those looking to invest in real estate.
For potential property buyers, the combination of administrative significance and infrastructure growth makes Kano Municipal a compelling choice. The area is not just about business; it's about being at the heart of a thriving city with a promising future.
As more companies seek office spaces in central locations, Kano Municipal's property market is set to continue its upward trajectory. This makes it an exciting time for investors and businesses alike to consider this vibrant area.
Sources: Nigeria Property Centre, Jones Lang LaSalle, Northcourt Real Estate
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6) Hotoro is gaining interest with its growing middle-class population and new housing developments
Hotoro is buzzing with real estate interest for a few compelling reasons.
First off, the middle-class population in Kano state, where Hotoro is located, is on the rise. This isn't just a random spike; it's part of a broader trend of population growth in the area. A larger middle class means more folks are eager to buy homes, which naturally boosts the real estate market.
Then there are the new housing projects that are sprouting up. Imagine modern living spaces with all the bells and whistles. Reports highlight major infrastructure developments and commercial loans being secured for these projects in Kano. This makes Hotoro a magnet for potential buyers and investors.
Let's not forget the overall trend in Kano state, where property prices are climbing, much like in bustling urban areas such as Lagos. This upward trend signals that investing in Hotoro real estate could be a smart financial move, drawing even more interest.
Sources: Northcourt Real Estate, CiteSeerX
While this article provides thoughtful analysis and insights based on credible and carefully selected sources, it is not, and should never be considered, financial advice. We put significant effort into researching, aggregating, and analyzing data to present you with an informed perspective. However, every analysis reflects subjective choices, such as the selection of sources and methodologies, and no single piece can encompass the full complexity of the market. Always conduct your own research, seek professional advice, and make decisions based on your own judgment. Any financial risks or losses remain your responsibility.