Authored by the expert who managed and guided the team behind the Senegal Property Pack
Yes, the analysis of Dakar's property market is included in our pack
Dakar's property market is experiencing strong growth with average apartment prices at 1.1 million CFA francs per square meter and sustained annual appreciation of 5-7% citywide.
The market offers diverse opportunities from luxury coastal properties in Almadies to affordable emerging areas like Yoff and Pikine, with rental yields ranging from 6-10% depending on location and property type.
If you want to go deeper, you can check our pack of documents related to the real estate market in Senegal, based on reliable facts and data, not opinions or rumors.
As of September 2025, Dakar's property market presents compelling investment opportunities with apartments averaging 1.1 million CFA/m² and houses at 590,000-930,000 CFA/m².
The market shows consistent growth potential with 5-7% annual appreciation citywide and up to 10-12% in premium districts like Almadies and Plateau.
| Property Type | Average Price (CFA/m²) | USD Equivalent | Annual Growth Rate | Rental Yield |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Standard Apartments | 1,108,167 | $1,800 | 5-7% | 6-10% |
| Houses | 593,333-926,362 | $1,500 | 5-7% | 5-8% |
| Luxury Properties (Almadies) | 3,500,000-5,500,000 | $5,700-9,000 | 10-12% | 5-8% |
| Affordable Areas | 500,000-1,000,000 | $820-1,600 | 8-10% | 9-10% |
| Commercial Spaces | 1,200,000-2,500,000 | $2,000-4,100 | 25-30% | 6-12% |
What's the current average price per square meter in Dakar for apartments and houses?
As of September 2025, apartments in Dakar average 1,108,167 CFA francs per square meter (approximately $1,800), while houses range from 593,333 to 926,362 CFA francs per square meter (around $1,500).
Standard apartments across the city typically fall within the 1.1 million CFA/m² range, but luxury units in premium areas like Almadies, Ngor, and Plateau can reach 3.5 to 5.5 million CFA/m².
Houses show more variation depending on location and quality, with suburban properties starting around 593,333 CFA/m² and central district houses averaging up to 926,362 CFA/m².
Affordable zones in outlying districts such as Yoff and Pikine offer entry points from 500,000 to 1 million CFA/m², making them accessible for first-time buyers or investors seeking higher rental yields.
It's something we develop in our Senegal property pack.
How have property prices in Dakar changed over the past 1–3 years, and what's the trend for the next 1–3 years?
Dakar's property market has experienced steady growth over the past 1-3 years, with annual appreciation rates of 5-7% citywide and up to 10-12% in premium districts.
Standard apartments have grown approximately 20-23% over the three-year period, while houses have appreciated 15-18% during the same timeframe.
Luxury properties in coastal areas like Almadies have outperformed the market with growth rates exceeding 20% over three years, driven by strong expatriate demand and limited supply.
Looking ahead through 2026 and beyond, similar appreciation rates are projected to continue, with infrastructure developments and urbanization supporting sustained price growth across all market segments.
Commercial real estate has shown particularly strong performance with 25-30% growth over the past three years, reflecting Dakar's expanding business sector and office demand.
What's the rental yield right now in different areas of Dakar for apartments, houses, and commercial spaces?
Rental yields for apartments in central districts currently average 6-10%, with most mid-market zones delivering six to seven percent annually.
City center and affluent zones like Almadies and Plateau offer apartment yields of 5-8%, while houses in these areas yield slightly lower due to higher capital values.
Emerging and peripheral areas provide the highest yields at 9-10%, particularly for mid-sized apartments and affordable housing units that attract steady rental demand.
Commercial spaces in prime locations deliver yields of 6-12%, with newly redeveloped business zones and modern office buildings commanding the higher end of this range.
The best rental performance comes from properties in Sacré-Coeur, Fann, and Medina, where strong occupancy rates combine with reasonable acquisition costs to maximize investor returns.
How quickly do properties sell on average in Dakar depending on the area and property type?
Properties in premium coastal districts like Almadies, Ngor, and Plateau typically sell within 3-6 months due to limited supply and strong demand from affluent buyers.
| Area Type | Property Type | Average Sale Time | Market Demand | Key Buyer Profile |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Premium Coastal (Almadies, Ngor) | Apartments & Villas | 3-6 months | High | Expatriates, Wealthy locals |
| Central Districts (Plateau, Fann) | Apartments | 4-8 months | High | Middle class, Investors |
| Emerging Areas (Sacré-Coeur) | All Types | 6-10 months | Moderate | Local buyers, Investors |
| Suburban (Pikine, Rufisque) | Houses & Apartments | 6-12+ months | Moderate | Local families |
| Development Areas | Land Plots | Variable (3-18 months) | High near infrastructure | Developers, Investors |
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Which neighborhoods are currently showing the strongest growth in property values?
Almadies leads Dakar's property appreciation with the strongest growth rates, highest price levels, and most consistent interest from expatriate buyers seeking luxury coastal living.
Ngor, Plateau, Mermoz, and Fann demonstrate high liquidity with sustained appreciation and the fastest sales cycles for apartment properties across all price segments.
Diamniadio and Sacré-Coeur represent emerging growth areas benefiting from infrastructure-driven appreciation and strong rental demand from the expanding business sector.
These neighborhoods benefit from proximity to new transport links, business developments, and urban regeneration projects that continue to unlock property value.
Modern residential complexes in these areas with amenities like security, gyms, and water backup systems command 30-40% premiums over older buildings.
Which areas are more affordable but still have potential for appreciation in the medium to long term?
Yoff, Pikine, and Rufisque offer more affordable entry points while benefiting from new transport links and ongoing urbanization that support medium-term appreciation.
Sacré-Coeur and Medina provide mid-range entry costs with excellent prospects due to urban regeneration projects and proximity to expanding commercial zones.
Diamniadio remains accessible for buyers while becoming increasingly attractive due to smart city development projects and major transport infrastructure investments.
These areas typically offer property prices 30-50% below central district levels while maintaining strong rental demand from local workers and students.
The key advantage of these neighborhoods is their position along planned BRT routes and near new business districts that will drive future value appreciation.
What is the difference in demand between apartments, houses, and land plots across Dakar?
Apartments show the highest demand citywide due to affordability, strong rental potential, and suitability for both expatriate and middle-class buyer segments.
1. **Apartments** - Highest overall demand across all market segments - Most affordable entry point for first-time buyers - Strong rental yields in most neighborhoods - Preferred by expatriates and young professionals - Fastest liquidity for resale - Best financing options available2. **Houses** - Preferred by established local families - Stronger demand in suburban zones - Premium houses in central districts are niche but high-value - Limited supply in desirable areas drives competition - Higher maintenance costs affect demand3. **Land Plots** - Strong investor interest in strategic locations - High demand near infrastructure projects - Popular in Diamniadio and transport corridor areas - Speculation around new business district development - Requires significant capital and development expertiseHow do infrastructure projects, transport links, and new developments affect property values in different parts of the city?
Major infrastructure upgrades including the BRT system, airport roads, and Diamniadio development are unlocking value in previously less-desirable areas and driving significant price appreciation.
Areas close to new business districts, ports, and transport links experience above-average appreciation rates, greater investor interest, and improved rental performance compared to areas without infrastructure access.
The BRT system has particularly impacted property values along its routes, with properties within walking distance of stations seeing 15-25% price premiums over comparable properties further away.
Diamniadio's smart city project has transformed the surrounding area from agricultural land to a growing urban center, with property values increasing by over 200% since development began.
It's something we develop in our Senegal property pack.
We did some research and made this infographic to help you quickly compare rental yields of the major cities in Senegal 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 typical purchase budgets needed to enter the market in different neighborhoods?
Premium areas like Almadies and Ngor require entry-level apartment budgets of 120-150 million CFA francs ($200,000+), while houses and villas in these locations cost significantly more.
| Neighborhood Category | Entry-Level Apartments | Mid-Range Properties | Premium Properties |
|---|---|---|---|
| Premium (Almadies, Ngor) | 120-150 million CFA ($200,000+) | 200-300 million CFA ($330-500k) | 400+ million CFA ($650k+) |
| Central (Plateau, Fann) | 75-105 million CFA ($125-175k) | 120-180 million CFA ($200-300k) | 250+ million CFA ($400k+) |
| Emerging (Sacré-Coeur, Medina) | 60-90 million CFA ($100-150k) | 90-130 million CFA ($150-215k) | 180+ million CFA ($300k+) |
| Affordable (Yoff, Pikine) | 45-60 million CFA ($75-100k) | 65-95 million CFA ($110-155k) | 120+ million CFA ($200k+) |
| Development Areas (Diamniadio) | 55-80 million CFA ($90-130k) | 85-120 million CFA ($140-200k) | 150+ million CFA ($250k+) |
If buying to live, which areas offer the best balance of amenities, safety, and price?
Plateau, Mermoz, and Fann offer the optimal balance of amenities, safety, and price for residents, combining well-connected locations with diverse services and reasonable property costs.
These neighborhoods provide excellent access to schools, healthcare facilities, shopping centers, and restaurants while maintaining strong security and established expatriate communities.
Sacré-Coeur and Medina present mid-range pricing with improving infrastructure, lively local character, and growing amenities that appeal to both local and international residents.
Diamniadio represents a compelling option for those seeking modern planned community living with growing amenities and excellent long-term prospects at current value prices.
All these areas benefit from reliable utilities, good internet connectivity, and proximity to business districts, making them practical choices for working professionals and families.
If buying to rent out, which zones give the highest occupancy rates and rental returns?
Sacré-Coeur, Fann, and Medina deliver the highest occupancy rates with sustainable rental demand and good yields, combining affordable acquisition costs with steady tenant interest.
Pikine and Yoff provide lower capital entry requirements with resilient demand from local workers, students, and young professionals seeking affordable housing options.
Almadies and Plateau attract expatriate tenants and high-income locals but require higher acquisition costs and come with elevated rental expectations from tenants.
The best rental performance comes from 2-3 bedroom apartments in well-connected areas with modern amenities like reliable electricity, water backup, and security systems.
It's something we develop in our Senegal property pack.
If buying to resell, what types of properties and which neighborhoods are most liquid in the short to medium term?
Two to three-bedroom apartments represent the most liquid assets with the fastest sales cycles, remaining popular among families and investors across all market segments.
1. **Most Liquid Property Types:** - 2-3 bedroom apartments in central and emerging areas - Modern apartments with amenities (security, backup power) - Well-located houses in mid-range districts - Land plots near BRT stations and new developments - Commercial spaces in business districts2. **Fastest-Selling Neighborhoods:** - Plateau and Fann (established demand, diverse buyers) - Almadies (luxury segment, expatriate interest) - Sacré-Coeur (emerging area, good value proposition) - Areas near transport infrastructure - Properties close to business districts3. **Key Liquidity Factors:** - Proximity to transport links and amenities - Modern construction with reliable utilities - Competitive pricing within neighborhood range - Clear legal documentation and ownership - Professional property management historyConclusion
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.
Dakar's property market in September 2025 presents compelling opportunities for both investors and residents, with consistent growth patterns and diverse options across all price segments.
The combination of infrastructure development, stable appreciation rates, and attractive rental yields makes Dakar an increasingly attractive destination for property investment in West Africa.
Sources
- Dakar Price Forecasts - The African Investor
- Senegal Price Forecasts - The African Investor
- Dakar Property Market Analysis - The African Investor
- Senegal Real Estate Market - The African Investor
- Future of Commercial Real Estate in Senegal - LinkedIn
- Senegal House Prices - Properstar
- Property Investment in Dakar - Numbeo
- Apartments for Sale in Dakar - Loger Dakar