Should you buy property in Gabon now?

Authored by the expert who managed and guided the team behind the Gabon Property Pack

Everything you need to know before buying real estate is included in our Gabon Property Pack

Who is the author of this content?

THE AFRICANVESTOR

A team specialized in real estate investing in African countries

We are a team of financial experts, legal professionals, developers, and local real estate specialists dedicated to helping people like you avoid mistakes when investing in real estate in a foreign place, particularly in Gabon. If you'd like to learn more about us, you can check our presentation page.

How this content was created 🔎📝

At The AfricanVestor, we explore the Gabonese real estate market every day. Our team doesn't just analyze data from a distance—we're actively engaging with local realtors, investors, and property managers in cities like Libreville, Port-Gentil, and Koulamoutou. This hands-on approach allows us to gain a deep understanding of the market from the inside out.

These observations are originally based on what we've learned through these conversations and our observations. But it was not enough. To back them up, we also needed to rely on trusted resources

We prioritize accuracy and authority. Trends lacking solid data or expert validation were excluded.

Trustworthiness is central to our work. Every source and citation is clearly listed, ensuring transparency. A writing AI-powered tool was used solely to refine readability and engagement.

To make the information accessible, our team designed custom infographics that clarify key points. We hope you will like them! All illustrations and media were created in-house and added manually.

What are property prices doing right now in Gabon, both in the main cities and in smaller towns?

Gabon's property market is currently experiencing a stabilization period after years of significant growth.

Libreville, the capital and economic hub, leads the market with average residential property prices of $1,200 per m². A typical one-bedroom apartment of around 60 m² costs approximately $72,000, while two-bedroom units averaging 85 m² are priced at $102,000.

Port-Gentil, the country's oil capital, offers more affordable entry points with average prices around $960 per m² - approximately 20% cheaper than Libreville. However, specific areas like Sogara are experiencing faster price appreciation due to strong demand from oil sector expatriates.

Regional centers and smaller towns present significantly lower price points, with many areas showing price per m² below $500 for basic housing. Koulamoutou stands out as an exception, showing the fastest growth among smaller cities driven by population increases and urban development initiatives.

It's something we develop in our Gabon property pack.

How have prices changed over the past 12–24 months, and what are the forecasts for the next year or two?

The Gabonese property market has undergone a dramatic transformation over recent years, with prices rising 86.65% across the country over the past five years.

This surge peaked during 2022-2023, but since early 2024, the market has entered a stabilization phase. Over the past 12-24 months, price growth has significantly slowed, with the market now plateauing at historically high levels.

For 2026-2027, property prices are expected to remain stable or experience slight declines of 0% to -2%. This forecast reflects current economic stagnation and persistently high mortgage rates ranging from 8% to 18%, which are restricting the buyer pool.

The stabilization period represents a natural correction after the rapid appreciation, creating a more sustainable market environment for both buyers and investors. Urban areas are expected to maintain better price stability compared to rural regions.

What are the long-term prospects for property values in Gabon over the next 5–10 years?

Long-term prospects for Gabon's property market show moderate optimism, contingent on successful economic reforms and infrastructure investment.

Time Period	Expected Growth	Key Drivers
2025-2027	0% to -2% annually	High mortgage rates, economic stagnation
2028-2030	2% to 4% annually	Infrastructure projects, urban development
2031-2035	3% to 5% annually	Economic diversification, population growth
Best Case Scenario	Up to 6% annually	Successful oil revenue management, political stability
Risk Scenario	0% to -3% annually	Oil price volatility, political instability
Infrastructure Impact	Additional 1-2% growth	Transportation, utilities expansion
Diversification Success	Additional 2-3% growth	Mining, agriculture, tourism development

The country's political stability provides a foundation for optimism, but continued dependence on oil revenues remains a significant risk factor that could affect market performance.

Which areas of Gabon are currently showing the strongest growth and which are stagnating or declining?

Koulamoutou emerges as the fastest-growing market in Gabon, driven by population gains and active urban development projects.

Libreville maintains its position as the most expensive and consistently demanded market, particularly for high-end residential properties. The capital's northern districts show especially strong performance due to proximity to government offices and international businesses.

Port-Gentil's Sogara area demonstrates robust growth in both rental yields and property prices, fueled by oil industry expatriate demand. This specialized market segment benefits from stable, high-income tenants willing to pay premium rates.

Franceville and many smaller regional towns are experiencing stable but flat price movements, making them conservative choices for investors seeking predictable but modest returns. These markets lack the dynamic growth drivers seen in major urban centers.

Rural areas and towns without significant economic anchors are showing signs of stagnation or minor declines as urbanization continues to draw population toward major cities.

How do property prices compare between Libreville, Port-Gentil, and other regional centers?

Libreville commands the highest property prices in Gabon, reflecting its status as the political and economic capital.

The capital's average price of $1,200 per m² represents a significant premium over other markets, justified by superior infrastructure, amenities, and employment opportunities. High-end apartments in prime locations can exceed $1,500 per m², particularly in areas popular with diplomatic communities.

Port-Gentil offers more accessible entry points at $960 per m², but specific oil sector neighborhoods command premium pricing. The city's dual nature - industrial zones versus residential areas - creates distinct price tiers within the same market.

Koulamoutou, despite being a smaller city, shows estimated prices between $500-700 per m² due to its rapid growth trajectory. This represents significant value appreciation potential compared to other regional centers.

Franceville and similar-sized regional centers typically range from $500-600 per m², offering affordability but limited appreciation prospects. These markets appeal to budget-conscious buyers seeking stable, long-term holds rather than growth investments.

What are the differences in demand and pricing between apartments, houses, and land plots?

Apartments in urban centers command the highest demand and pricing, especially in city centers where modern amenities and security features are prioritized.

Urban apartments typically offer the most secure investment option, with established rental markets and clear resale demand. These properties appeal strongly to young professionals, expatriates, and government workers who value convenience and modern facilities.

Houses remain popular in suburban areas, showing steady pricing patterns and consistent demand among professionals and families seeking more space. Suburban houses often provide better value per square meter but may have longer selling periods compared to centrally located apartments.

Land plots represent the cheapest entry point into the market but carry the highest risk-reward profile. Appreciation potential depends heavily on location proximity to infrastructure development and urban expansion plans. These investments require careful research into zoning regulations and development timelines.

The rental market strongly favors apartments over houses in urban areas, while houses perform better in family-oriented suburban markets where schools and community amenities are priorities.

What are the typical rental yields by property type and location right now?

Rental yields in Gabon vary significantly by location and property type, with the best opportunities concentrated in urban and expatriate-focused areas.

1. **Libreville Prime Areas**: 5-7% gross yields for well-located apartments2. **Port-Gentil Expatriate Zones**: Up to 8% yields in Sogara and oil sector neighborhoods 3. **Libreville Suburban**: 4-6% yields for family houses4. **Regional Centers**: 3.5-5% yields with lower tenant turnover5. **Koulamoutou Growing Areas**: 6-7% yields reflecting rapid development

Port-Gentil's expatriate-focused market offers the highest yields, particularly in areas serving oil sector workers who require furnished, modern accommodations and are willing to pay premium rents for quality housing.

National averages range from 3.5% to 8%, with the best-performing properties located in markets supported by stable employment from oil companies or government institutions. Properties targeting international workers consistently outperform those relying solely on local demand.

It's something we develop in our Gabon property pack.

How strong is the rental market in the short term, and how is it expected to evolve in the medium and long term?

The rental market shows robust strength in key urban centers and expatriate zones, with steady demand patterns supporting consistent occupancy rates.

Short-term prospects remain positive in Libreville and Port-Gentil, where government workers, oil sector employees, and international organizations create stable tenant pools. These markets benefit from limited quality housing supply relative to demand from high-income renters.

Medium-term evolution (3-5 years) depends significantly on oil sector stability and government employment levels. Successful economic diversification efforts could strengthen rental demand by creating new employment categories and expanding the middle class.

Long-term rental market sustainability hinges on urbanization trends, infrastructure development, and economic diversification success. Rural-to-urban migration is expected to continue, supporting rental demand in major cities while potentially weakening smaller town markets.

Risk factors include potential economic downturns affecting expatriate employment, government budget constraints impacting public sector jobs, and oil price volatility affecting overall economic stability and rental affordability.

We did some research and made this infographic to help you quickly compare rental yields of the major cities in Gabon 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 main risks that could affect property values and rental demand in Gabon in the coming years?

High mortgage rates represent the most immediate risk to property values, with current rates of 8-18% significantly restricting the buyer pool and limiting market liquidity.

Economic dependency on oil creates systemic risk for the entire property market. Oil price volatility can rapidly affect local economies, employment levels, buyer behavior, and rental occupancy rates, particularly in Port-Gentil and other oil-dependent areas.

Limited secondary market liquidity poses challenges for property exits, especially in smaller cities where buyer pools are narrow and transaction volumes are low. This risk affects resale timelines and price negotiations.

Currency fluctuation and interest rate shocks could impact foreign investor participation and local buyer financing capabilities. The CFA franc's stability relative to major currencies influences international investment flows.

Political events and slow economic reform implementation could affect investor confidence and long-term market development. Regulatory changes in property ownership laws or taxation could also impact market dynamics.

What budget range gives you the best balance between affordability, rental income, and resale potential?

The $60,000-$100,000 USD range represents the optimal investment sweet spot for Gabonese property investment.

This budget range typically covers well-located urban apartments in good neighborhoods that offer solid rental yields of 5-8%, reasonable affordability barriers, and strong resale appeal to both local professionals and international buyers.

Properties under $50,000 exist in smaller towns or peripheral districts but carry higher risk due to lower rental yields and uncertain resale demand. These options may appeal to budget-constrained investors but require careful location selection.

Higher-budget properties above $100,000 target luxury segments with more limited buyer pools, potentially extending resale periods and reducing yield percentages. These properties work best for investors targeting diplomatic or high-end expatriate rental markets.

The recommended range provides access to modern apartments with security features, good transport links, and proximity to employment centers - key factors driving both rental demand and resale value retention.

If you want to buy for living, renting out, or reselling, what areas and property types make the most sense right now?

For buy-to-live strategies, Libreville's central and northern districts offer the best combination of amenities, security, and infrastructure access.

Investment Goal	Recommended Areas	Property Types
Buy-to-Live	Libreville center, established suburbs	2-3 bedroom apartments, family houses
Rental Investment	Port-Gentil Sogara, Libreville business districts	1-2 bedroom furnished apartments
Resale Potential	Libreville prime areas, Koulamoutou growth zones	Modern apartments in secure buildings
High Yield Focus	Port-Gentil expatriate zones	Furnished units near oil facilities
Long-term Growth	Koulamoutou, Libreville expansion areas	Apartments in developing neighborhoods
Conservative Investment	Established Libreville suburbs	Houses in proven rental areas
Development Play	Areas with confirmed infrastructure projects	Land plots in expansion zones

Port-Gentil's oil sector neighborhoods excel for rental investment, particularly Sogara area where expatriate demand supports premium rents and reliable occupancy.

Koulamoutou presents growth potential for patient investors willing to bet on continued urban development and population expansion in this emerging secondary city.

Given today's market conditions, what is the smartest way to position yourself if you decide to buy property in Gabon now?

Focus on urban apartments and expatriate-favored districts to maximize both steady income potential and reliable resale opportunities.

Prioritize locations with established rental demand rather than speculative areas, given current market stability and high financing costs. Proven neighborhoods with consistent occupancy rates offer better risk-adjusted returns.

Use substantial down payments to minimize mortgage exposure, given the 8-18% interest rate environment. Higher equity positions reduce monthly carrying costs and improve cash flow from rental income.

Target mid-range properties over luxury segments to access wider tenant and buyer pools. The middle market offers better liquidity and more predictable demand patterns than high-end properties with limited buyer pools.

Monitor infrastructure development and oil sector policies closely, as these factors significantly influence local market dynamics. Maintain flexibility to adjust portfolio focus if economic conditions or demand patterns shift.

It's something we develop in our Gabon property pack.

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.

Sources

1. The African Investor - Gabon Price Forecasts
2. Statista - Gabon Residential Real Estate Outlook
3. The African Investor - Best Areas in Gabon
4. The African Investor - Gabon Real Estate Market Analysis
5. The African Investor - Libreville Price Forecasts
6. The African Investor - Gabon Real Estate Forecasts
7. The African Investor - Gabon Property Investment Guide
8. Numbeo - Property Investment in Libreville