Dhaka’s Rental Market: What You Need to Know
Living in Dhaka? Whether you're moving into the city for work, study, or a new chapter in life, one thing is clear—finding the right flat is a big deal. Dhaka is one of the busiest and most populated cities in South Asia, and with that comes a high demand for rental housing.
If you're hunting for a new place, knowing what affects rent, where to look, and what to avoid can help you make smarter decisions.
Average Flat Rent in Dhaka
Flat rents vary widely depending on where you’re looking and what kind of flat you need. Here's a general breakdown:
Studio Apartment: ৳7,000–15,000/month
1 Bedroom: ৳10,000–20,000/month
2 Bedrooms: ৳15,000–35,000/month
3 Bedrooms: ৳25,000–70,000+/month
Luxury and high-end flats in premium areas can exceed ৳100,000 per month.
Top Residential Areas to Rent in Dhaka
Gulshan
Home to embassies, corporations, and upscale living. It’s safe, clean, and well-connected—perfect for expats and diplomats.
Banani
Trendy and central, with easy access to restaurants, offices, and shopping. A popular choice among young professionals.
Dhanmondi
Family-friendly with everything from schools to shopping malls. Well-planned and peaceful.
Uttara
Spacious, organized, and growing fast. It has a suburban feel but with full city access.
Mirpur
Affordable and busy. Well-connected by metro and buses. Great for students and working-class families.
Bashundhara R/A
Modern and peaceful. Close to universities, hospitals, and big shopping centers.
Mohammadpur
Conveniently located and still relatively affordable. Offers good value for money.
What Affects Flat Rent in Dhaka?
Location
The closer you are to the city’s core or business hubs, the higher the rent.
Facilities
Apartments with lifts, security, power backup, parking, and modern kitchens cost more.
Size & Design
Larger flats with more rooms, open layouts, or balconies fetch higher rents.
Building Condition
Newer buildings often have higher rents, but they also come with better facilities.
2024–2025 Rental Trends in Dhaka
The rental scene in Dhaka is evolving. Post-pandemic, people are prioritizing larger spaces, home offices, and amenities like Wi-Fi and backup generators. Furnished flats and online platforms are gaining popularity.
Websites like Bproperty, Bikroy, and Facebook groups are making it easier than ever to find a flat without stepping outside.
Hidden Costs You Might Overlook
Besides monthly rent, here are some costs you’ll need to budget for:
Utilities: Electricity, gas, and water – ৳3,000–10,000/month
Internet & TV: Around ৳1,000–2,000/month
Service Charges: ৳1,000–5,000/month in apartment complexes
Transportation: Daily commute costs can vary widely
Tips for Renting in Dhaka Like a Pro
Inspect Before You Commit: Always visit the flat in person
Talk Directly to the Landlord if you can—agents may inflate rent
Review the Lease: Understand the terms, especially regarding advance and notice periods
Negotiate: It’s common and expected to bargain a little
Short-Term vs. Long-Term Renting: What’s Right for You?
Short-Term Rentals
Great for students, interns, or visitors. Usually furnished, but more expensive on a monthly basis.
Long-Term Rentals
Best for families or people planning to stay for a year or more. Lower monthly rent, but you’ll need to pay a deposit upfront.
Renting as an Expat in Dhaka
If you're an expat looking for a home in Dhaka:
Stick to neighborhoods like Gulshan, Banani, or Baridhara
Use trusted agents or rental platforms
Always sign a formal rental agreement
Ask locals for tips or join expat communities online
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Skipping the inspection: Never rent without seeing the flat
Ignoring paperwork: Verbal agreements can lead to trouble
Not asking about service charges: They can add a big chunk to your bill
Overpaying for hype: Trendy areas don’t always mean better value
Should You Use a Real Estate Agent?
Benefits
Easier search
Better access to listings
Help with paperwork
Drawbacks
Commission fees (usually 1 month’s rent)
Not all agents are reliable—always do your research
Top Platforms to Find Flats in Dhaka
Bproperty.com: Clean listings, verified flats, legal support
Bikroy.com: Quick listings, lots of variety
Facebook: Groups like “Flat Rent in Dhaka” post daily offers
Watch Out for These Extra Charges
Advance Deposit: Usually 2–3 months' rent
Maintenance Fees: May or may not be included in the rent
Repair Responsibility: Clarify who handles damage and wear
Parking Fees: Not always included in the deal
What’s Next for Dhaka’s Rental Scene?
Dhaka is moving towards smarter living—eco-friendly buildings, tech-enabled homes, and community-style apartments are gaining traction. Builders are focusing on providing modern, efficient spaces that match the needs of today’s renters.
Conclusion
Finding the right flat to rent in Dhaka isn’t just about the price—it’s about comfort, safety, convenience, and long-term value. Whether you’re moving alone or with family, planning to stay short-term or long-term, there’s a flat for every lifestyle and budget in this vibrant city. Do your homework, trust your instincts, and get ready to make Dhaka your new home.
FAQs
1. How much is rent for a 2-bedroom flat in Dhaka?
You can expect to pay between ৳15,000 and ৳35,000, depending on the area and amenities.
2. Is it cheaper to live in Mirpur or Dhanmondi?
Mirpur is generally more affordable, while Dhanmondi offers more convenience and services.
3. Can foreigners easily rent in Dhaka?
Yes, but it’s best to work through reliable agents or platforms and choose expat-friendly neighborhoods.
4. What’s the standard advance for renting a flat?
Most landlords require a 2–3 month advance as a security deposit.