Dhaka Renters Save Thousands Monthly Compared to Home Buyers Today

According to recent data, the average rent for a 3-bedroom apartment in Dhaka's Gulshan neighborhood is approximately 60,000 BDT per month, while the average price for a similar apartment is around 2.5 crore BDT. This has led many to wonder: is renting actually cheaper than buying right now?

The question of whether to rent or buy is a pressing concern for many Dhaka residents, particularly in the current economic climate. With the city's population projected to reach 20 million by 2025, the demand for housing is skyrocketing. Meanwhile, the cost of living in Dhaka continues to rise, making it increasingly difficult for people to afford their own homes. As a result, many are turning to the rental market, but is this really the more affordable option?

In neighborhoods like Banani and Baridhara, rental prices are relatively high, with 2-bedroom apartments going for around 40,000-50,000 BDT per month. However, when compared to the cost of buying a similar property, which can range from 1.5-3 crore BDT, renting may seem like the more affordable choice. Organisations like the Bangladesh Housing and Building Research Institute and the Real Estate and Housing Association of Bangladesh are working to address the issue of affordability in the city's housing market.

A Closer Look at the Numbers

According to data from the Bangladesh Bank, the average interest rate for a home loan in Bangladesh is around 10-12% per annum. This means that for a 2.5 crore BDT loan, the monthly installment would be approximately 25,000-30,000 BDT, not including other costs like property taxes and maintenance. In contrast, the average rent for a 3-bedroom apartment in Dhaka's Dhanmondi neighborhood is around 50,000 BDT per month. As of June 2026, the Bangladesh government has introduced a new housing policy, which aims to provide affordable housing options for low- and middle-income families.

So, what does this mean for potential buyers and renters in Dhaka? For those who can afford the upfront costs, buying may still be the better option in the long run. However, for many, renting may be the more practical choice, at least for now. As the city's real estate market continues to evolve, it's essential for residents to stay informed and adapt to the changing landscape. For example, the Dhaka North City Corporation has launched a new initiative to develop affordable housing projects in areas like Mirpur and Uttara, which may provide more options for buyers in the future.