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Cameroon's property market is showing strong growth with prices rising 3-8% annually in major cities.
Current apartment prices in Douala and Yaoundé city centers average $1,851 per square meter, while suburban areas offer properties at $694 per square meter. The market benefits from rapid urbanization, infrastructure development, and rental yields of 6-9%, though investors should consider security concerns and regulatory challenges when making decisions.
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.
Cameroon's property market is experiencing steady growth with 3-8% annual price increases in major cities like Douala and Yaoundé.
The market offers attractive rental yields of 6-9% and benefits from ongoing urbanization and infrastructure projects, though security and regulatory risks need consideration.
| Metric | City Center (Douala/Yaoundé) | Suburban Areas |
|---|---|---|
| Apartment Price per m² | $1,851 (1,100,000 XAF) | $694 (412,000 XAF) |
| Annual Price Growth | 5-8% | 3-5% |
| Rental Yield | 6.1-8.8% | 7-9% |
| 3BR Apartment (80m²) | ~$148,000 | ~$55,500 |
| Land Price per m² | $124 (74,000 XAF) | $61 (36,500 XAF) |
| Monthly Rent (1BR) | $765 (456,000 XAF) | $483 (288,000 XAF) |
| Investment Outlook | Strong demand, premium locations | Good value, emerging areas |
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What is the typical budget range you should expect for apartments, houses, and land in different regions?
Budget requirements for Cameroon property vary significantly by location and property type, with city centers commanding premium prices.
| Property Type | Douala/Yaoundé Center | Suburban Areas | Secondary Cities |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1-Bedroom Apartment | $45,000-$75,000 | $25,000-$40,000 | $15,000-$30,000 |
| 2-Bedroom Apartment | $75,000-$120,000 | $40,000-$65,000 | $25,000-$50,000 |
| 3-Bedroom Apartment | $120,000-$200,000 | $65,000-$100,000 | $40,000-$75,000 |
| 3-Bedroom House | $180,000-$350,000 | $100,000-$200,000 | $60,000-$120,000 |
| Land (500m²) | $37,000-$62,000 | $18,000-$30,000 | $10,000-$20,000 |
| Luxury Villa | $400,000-$800,000 | $250,000-$500,000 | $150,000-$300,000 |
| Student Accommodation | $20,000-$35,000 | $12,000-$25,000 | $8,000-$20,000 |
What economic, political, or infrastructure projects are most likely to affect property values in the short, medium, and long term?
Several major projects and trends will significantly impact Cameroon's property market over different timeframes.
The Kribi Deep Seaport development stands out as the most transformative short-to-medium term project, with full operations expected by 2028-2030. This $1.5 billion investment will likely increase property values in the Kribi-Douala corridor by 20-40% as trade volumes increase and supporting industries develop.
Road infrastructure improvements, including the Yaoundé-Douala highway expansion and new inter-city connections, should boost property accessibility and values in previously remote areas. These projects, funded partly by Chinese and World Bank loans, are scheduled for completion between 2026-2029.
Political stability remains the largest risk factor, particularly ongoing tensions in English-speaking regions that have reduced property demand and values in affected areas. Resolution of these conflicts could unlock significant pent-up demand and price recovery.
The government's Vision 2035 industrialization program includes plans for new manufacturing zones and business parks, which should create employment and housing demand in designated areas. However, implementation timelines remain uncertain due to funding constraints.
Currency stability and inflation management will be crucial medium-term factors, with CFA franc devaluation risks and inflation potentially reaching 5% annually by 2026-2027 affecting purchasing power and property affordability.
It's something we develop in our Cameroon property pack.
If you decide to buy now, how should you position yourself in terms of location, budget, and property type depending on whether your goal is living, renting out, or reselling?
Your investment strategy should align with your primary objective, whether that's personal use, rental income, or capital appreciation.
For live-in purchases, focus on established neighborhoods in Douala (Bonapriso, Bonanjo) or Yaoundé (Bastos, Nkolbisson) with budgets between $75,000-$250,000 for quality apartments. Prioritize areas with reliable infrastructure, good security, and proximity to amenities like international schools, hospitals, and shopping centers.
Rental investment strategies should target university towns and emerging middle-class neighborhoods, with budgets of $40,000-$100,000 for apartments that can generate 7-9% annual yields. Focus on properties near educational institutions, business districts, and areas with good public transportation. Small to medium-sized apartments typically offer the best rental yield optimization.
For resale-focused investments, consider premium properties in top neighborhoods ($150,000-$400,000 range) or speculative land purchases in areas earmarked for future development ($20,000-$60,000 budgets). Properties near confirmed infrastructure projects offer the highest appreciation potential but require longer investment horizons.
Regardless of strategy, account for additional costs including legal fees (2-3%), property taxes, and mortgage interest rates around 13% for individuals. Always conduct thorough due diligence on property titles and local regulations, and consider the security situation in your chosen area before making final decisions.
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.
Cameroon's property market presents compelling opportunities with solid fundamentals supporting continued growth.
Success depends on careful location selection, realistic budget planning, and thorough understanding of local market dynamics and risks.
Sources
- TheAfricanVestor - Cameroon Price Forecasts
- Simtrade - Cameroonian Real Estate Market
- Statista - Real Estate Outlook Cameroon
- TheAfricanVestor - Cameroon Real Estate Trends
- TheAfricanVestor - Cameroon Real Estate Forecasts
- World Bank - Cameroon Development Report
- Boyo Real Estate - Best Cities to Buy Property
- Numbeo - Property Investment in Cameroon
-How Much Does Property Cost in Cameroon? Complete Price Guide
-Can Foreigners Buy Property in Cameroon? Complete Legal Guide
What are property prices right now in Cameroon across the main cities and regions?
As of September 2025, Cameroon's residential property market shows significant price variations between urban centers and suburban areas.
In Douala and Yaoundé city centers, apartment prices average $1,851 per square meter (1,100,000 XAF/m²), while properties outside these city centers cost approximately $694 per square meter (412,000 XAF/m²). This represents a substantial 167% price premium for central locations.
A typical 80-square-meter three-bedroom apartment in city centers costs around $148,000 (88 million XAF). Land prices in urban centers range from 36,500 XAF per square meter in affordable zones to 74,000 XAF per square meter in sought-after neighborhoods like Bastos in Yaoundé or Bonapriso in Douala.
Secondary cities like Kribi, Bamenda, and Garoua offer more affordable options, with apartment prices typically 30-50% lower than in the two main economic hubs. Rural areas and regions with security concerns show even lower prices but limited market liquidity.
It's something we develop in our Cameroon property pack.
How have property prices in Cameroon moved in the past 12 to 24 months?
Cameroon's residential property market has experienced steady growth over the past two years, with annual price increases ranging from 3% to 8% in urban areas.
Douala led the price appreciation with 8% year-over-year growth in 2024, driven by port expansion projects and increased business activity. Yaoundé followed closely with 6-7% annual growth, particularly in premium neighborhoods like Bastos and administrative districts.
Luxury and high-end properties appreciated faster than mass-market options, with some premium developments in central Douala seeing price increases of 10-12% annually. This trend reflects growing demand from affluent Cameroonians and expatriate professionals.
Conversely, properties in outlying or less secure regions experienced stagnant or declining prices as internal migration favored safer urban areas. The Far North and some English-speaking regions saw reduced demand due to ongoing security challenges.
The rental market also strengthened, with average rents in city centers increasing by 4-6% annually, supporting overall property valuations.
What are the short-term price forecasts for property in Cameroon over the next year?
Property prices in major Cameroonian cities are expected to continue their upward trajectory through 2026, with anticipated annual growth of 3-7% in urban hubs.
Douala's residential market is projected to grow 5-8% in 2026, supported by the ongoing Kribi Deep Seaport development and related infrastructure investments. The city's position as Cameroon's economic capital continues to attract domestic and international investment.
Yaoundé is forecast to see 4-6% price appreciation, driven by government infrastructure spending and urban development projects. New residential zones and improved transportation links are expected to boost property values in previously underdeveloped areas.
Secondary cities like Kribi may experience higher growth rates of 6-9% due to their smaller base and increasing tourism and business development. University towns such as Dschang and Buea are also expected to see strong demand from students and young professionals.
However, inflation concerns and potential interest rate increases could moderate growth in the second half of 2026, particularly for lower-income housing segments.
What are the medium-term trends for the next three to five years?
Cameroon's residential real estate sector is expected to expand at approximately 5% per year through 2030, driven by fundamental demographic and economic trends.
| Growth Driver | Impact on Prices | Timeline |
|---|---|---|
| Urbanization (70% by 2050) | 4-6% annual growth | 2026-2030 |
| Infrastructure Projects | 8-12% in target areas | 2026-2028 |
| Population Growth (2.6% annually) | 3-5% baseline demand | Ongoing |
| Foreign Investment (+12% since 2020) | Premium segment +6-10% | 2025-2027 |
| GDP Growth (4.5% in 2025) | Overall market +4-7% | 2025-2030 |
| Housing Supply Shortage | Price support +2-4% | Persistent |
| University Expansion | Student housing +7-12% | 2026-2029 |
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What are the long-term fundamentals that could drive property values in Cameroon over the next decade?
Cameroon's long-term property value growth depends on several structural factors that are expected to sustainably increase real estate values through 2035.
Urbanization represents the most significant driver, with Cameroon's urban population projected to reach 70% by 2050, up from approximately 58% in 2025. This demographic shift will create sustained demand for urban housing, particularly in Douala, Yaoundé, and emerging secondary cities.
Major infrastructure developments will reshape property markets over the next decade. The Kribi Deep Seaport project, expected to be fully operational by 2030, will likely boost property values in the coastal region by 20-40%. Similarly, the planned expansion of transportation networks between major cities should increase property accessibility and values in previously remote areas.
Economic diversification away from oil dependency toward manufacturing, agribusiness, and services should create more stable income sources for property buyers. The government's Vision 2035 development plan includes significant investments in industrial zones and business parks.
However, key risks include political instability, particularly in English-speaking regions, persistent inflation that could reach 5% annually, slow housing supply responses, and regulatory bottlenecks that limit foreign investment. Climate change impacts on coastal areas may also affect long-term property values in some regions.
How do rental yields compare across different cities and property types?
Cameroon's rental market offers attractive yields ranging from 6.1% to 8.8%, with significant variations by location and property type.
University towns like Dschang and Buea deliver the highest rental yields, often reaching 8-9% for student accommodation and small apartments. The constant demand from students and limited housing supply in these areas creates favorable conditions for landlords.
In Douala, rental yields typically range from 6.5% to 7.5% for residential properties, with higher yields available in emerging neighborhoods like Bonamoussadi where young professionals are increasingly locating. Central business district properties in Akwa and Bonanjo command lower yields of 5.5-6.5% due to higher purchase prices but offer better capital appreciation potential.
Yaoundé shows similar patterns, with yields of 6-7% in most residential areas and up to 8% in neighborhoods popular with civil servants and embassy staff. Properties near government institutions and international organizations typically maintain high occupancy rates.
The rental yield advantage stems from Cameroon's severe housing shortage, particularly for quality new-build properties. Most existing housing stock is older and lacks modern amenities, allowing well-maintained properties to command premium rents.
It's something we develop in our Cameroon property pack.
Which areas of Cameroon show the strongest demand for buyers who want to live in the property?
Douala's premium neighborhoods show the strongest live-in demand, particularly Bonapriso and Bonanjo, which attract affluent Cameroonians and expatriate professionals working in the port and business sectors.
In Yaoundé, Bastos remains the most sought-after residential area for owner-occupiers, followed by Nkolbisson and Tsinga. These neighborhoods offer better security, infrastructure, and proximity to government offices and international organizations, making them preferred choices for diplomatic staff and senior civil servants.
Kribi has emerged as a popular choice for both vacation homes and permanent residences, particularly among wealthy Cameroonians seeking coastal properties. The town's business zone attracts professionals working on port development projects.
Bonamoussadi in Douala shows rapidly growing demand from young professionals and middle-class families seeking modern housing at relatively affordable prices. The area benefits from new infrastructure development and improved security measures.
Secondary cities like Bamenda and Bafoussam attract buyers primarily from their respective regions, with demand concentrated in central areas offering better amenities and services. However, security concerns in some English-speaking regions have dampened demand in certain neighborhoods.
Which areas offer the best opportunities for renting out to tenants?
Student cities provide the strongest rental opportunities, with Dschang, Buea, and university neighborhoods in Yaoundé offering consistent demand and high occupancy rates.
1. **University towns and student areas** - Dschang University area, Buea (University of Buea), and Ngoa-Ekellé in Yaoundé guarantee year-round demand from students seeking affordable accommodation.2. **Business districts and economic hubs** - Douala's Akwa business district, Yaoundé's central administrative area, and emerging commercial zones in secondary cities attract professional tenants.3. **Expatriate-friendly neighborhoods** - Bastos and Nkolbisson in Yaoundé, Bonapriso in Douala, where international organizations and embassies locate their staff.4. **Emerging middle-class areas** - Bonamoussadi in Douala, PK neighborhoods in Yaoundé, where young professionals seek modern amenities at reasonable prices.5. **Industrial and port areas** - Properties near Douala port, industrial zones, and major infrastructure projects attract workers and supervisors on temporary assignments.The key to successful rental investment is targeting areas with secure urban infrastructure, reliable electricity and water supply, and good transportation links. Properties near hospitals, schools, and shopping centers typically achieve higher occupancy rates and rental premiums.
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.
Which areas and property types have the highest potential for resale gains?
High-end apartments and houses in Douala and Yaoundé city centers offer the strongest resale potential, particularly properties in established premium neighborhoods that benefit from ongoing infrastructure improvements.
Land in emerging districts shows exceptional potential for capital appreciation, especially plots near planned infrastructure developments or urban expansion areas. Areas designated for future urban development can provide speculative but potentially high-reward investment opportunities.
Properties near major infrastructure projects, such as the Kribi Deep Seaport corridor, new road networks, and planned industrial zones, typically experience significant value appreciation as development progresses. These areas often see 15-25% annual growth during active construction phases.
Coastal properties in Kribi and Limbe have strong resale prospects due to tourism development potential and their appeal as vacation homes for wealthy Cameroonians. However, investors should consider climate change risks for coastal investments.
Conversely, rural properties and assets in regions with ongoing security challenges generally show limited resale potential except where specific government development programs or infrastructure projects are confirmed. Market liquidity in these areas remains a significant concern for investors.