Dhaka Renters Now Spend Less Than Homebuyers Monthly

As of July 2026, the average rent for a 3-bedroom apartment in Dhaka's Gulshan neighborhood is approximately 60,000 BDT per month, while the average price of a similar apartment in the same area is around 2.5 crore BDT. This significant disparity 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 residents of Dhaka, particularly in the face of rising property prices and increasing demand for housing. With the city's population projected to reach 20 million by 2028, the pressure on the housing market is likely to continue. As such, understanding the current state of affordability is crucial for individuals and families looking to make informed decisions about their housing options.

In Dhaka, neighborhoods like Banani, Baridhara, and Dhanmondi are experiencing significant growth in terms of rental properties, with many new high-rise buildings and apartment complexes springing up along roads like Kemal Ataturk Avenue and Mirpur Road. Organisations like the Bangladesh Housing and Building Research Institute and the Real Estate and Housing Association of Bangladesh are working to promote affordable housing options and regulate the industry. Meanwhile, programs like the Government of Bangladesh's Ashrayan Project, which aims to provide affordable housing to low-income families, are helping to address the issue of affordability.

A Closer Look at the Numbers

According to data from the Bangladesh Bank, the average annual rent increase in Dhaka is around 10%, while the average annual appreciation in property value is around 15%. However, with property prices already at an all-time high, many potential buyers are being priced out of the market. For example, a 3-bedroom apartment in the upscale neighborhood of Bashundhara can cost upwards of 4 crore BDT, making it difficult for all but the wealthiest buyers to afford. In contrast, renting a similar apartment in the same area can cost around 80,000 BDT per month, which may be more manageable for many families.

So what does this mean for individuals and families looking to make a decision about their housing options? In practical terms, it may be worth considering renting as a more affordable option, at least in the short term. With many new rental properties becoming available in neighborhoods like Uttara and Mohakhali, there are plenty of options to choose from. Additionally, organisations like the Dhaka Rent Control Office are working to regulate the industry and protect the rights of tenants. As the city continues to grow and evolve, it will be important to monitor the housing market and adjust accordingly.