Estate Intel’s mid-February 2026 Abuja Rental Index shows mid-market 2–3 bedroom flats in areas like Gwarinpa, Kubwa, Lugbe, and Jabi recording 11–16% year-to-date rent increases, outpacing prime neighborhoods (Maitama, Asokoro) which grew only 5–9% in the same period.
The mid-market surge is driven by sustained demand from civil servants, tech workers, corporate relocations, and young professionals, even as affordability pressures persist from inflation legacy and wage stagnation for many earners.
Abuja Rental Ranges by Zone (Mid-February 2026 – 2–3 Bed Flats, Furnished)
- Prime (Maitama, Asokoro, Wuse II)
- Annual rent: ₦3.5M–₦8M
- YTD increase: 5–9%
- Monthly equivalent: ₦290k–₦667k
- Mid-Market (Gwarinpa, Kubwa, Lugbe, Jabi, Apo)
- Annual rent: ₦1.6M–₦3.8M
- YTD increase: 11–16%
- Monthly equivalent: ₦133k–₦317k
- Emerging / Affordable (Kuje, Gwagwalada, Airport Road extension)
- Annual rent: ₦900k–₦2.2M
- YTD increase: 12–18% in select pockets
- Monthly equivalent: ₦75k–₦183k
Top 8 Fastest-Rising Rental Areas in Abuja (Mid-Feb 2026 YTD)
- Gwarinpa Phase 3 & Extension: +16%
- Kubwa Extension: +15%
- Lugbe / Galadimawa: +14%
- Jabi / Jabi Lake District: +13%
- Apo / Apo Mechanic Village: +12%
- Kuje Town: +12%
- Gwagwalada: +11%
- Airport Road / Durumi: +10%
Comparison with Lagos & Secondary Cities (Mid-Feb 2026 YTD)
- Lagos mid-market (Yaba, Surulere, Ikorodu): +13–19% YTD
- Port Harcourt (GRA, Trans-Amadi): +9–14%
- Enugu (Independence Layout, New Haven): +10–15%
- Ibadan (Bodija, Samonda): +11–17%
- Kano (GRA, Nassarawa): +8–13%
Q1 2026 Outlook for Landlords & Tenants
For Landlords
- Mid-market rents likely to rise another 4–8% in Q1 remainder if demand holds
- Solar/inverter-ready units can command additional 10–15% premium
- Increased competition in emerging areas → professional management & furnishing becoming essential for occupancy
For Tenants
- Expect negotiation leverage to weaken in mid-market zones
- Budget 8–12% rent increase when renewing in Q2–Q3
- Prioritize properties with reliable power backup to offset grid costs
Final Thoughts
The 11–16% YTD rent increases in Abuja mid-market areas in mid-February 2026 reflect structural demand that continues to outrun supply in accessible locations.
While prime areas show slower growth, mid-market and emerging corridors remain the hottest rental plays for both yield and occupancy stability.
Landlords: invest in reliable power solutions to justify premiums. Tenants: lock in renewals early or consider emerging zones for better value.
Which Abuja area’s rent increase surprised you most? Share your experience or budget below!
Disclaimer: This information is for general purposes only and not legal advice. Consult a qualified real estate lawyer for guidance.
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