Looking for an apartment for rent in Addis Ababa? Rental prices in the city vary widely depending on the neighborhood, apartment size, furnishing, building quality, amenities, and accessibility. In 2026, renters can find everything from relatively affordable apartments in developing residential areas to premium furnished apartments in neighborhoods such as Bole and Kazanchis. Whether you are moving to Addis Ababa for work, relocating with your family, looking for a furnished apartment, or simply searching for a home within a specific budget, knowing how rental prices differ by area can help you narrow your search.
Apartment Rental Prices in Addis Ababa in 2026
There is no single rental price that applies to apartments throughout Addis Ababa. A one-bedroom apartment in Bole, for example, can have a very different asking price from a similar-sized apartment in Summit, Ayat, or Gerji. Location is one of the biggest factors affecting rent, but it is not the only one. The size and condition of the apartment, whether it is furnished, the age and quality of the building, parking, security, water and electricity availability, and additional amenities can all affect the monthly rental price. For example, current furnished rental listings in Bole include apartments starting at approximately 120,000 ETB per month for one-bedroom units, 170,000 ETB for two-bedroom units, and 230,000 ETB for three-bedroom units. Furnished villas and houses can start from around 280,000 ETB per month. These figures are indicative asking prices from available properties, not fixed prices for every apartment in the neighborhood. Rental prices can change depending on the exact property, location, condition, furnishing, and rental terms.
Apartment Rent by Area in Addis Ababa
Choosing the right neighborhood is just as important as choosing the right apartment. Different areas of Addis Ababa offer different combinations of convenience, property types, rental prices, and access to workplaces and services.
Bole
Bole is one of the most popular areas for people searching for apartments in Addis Ababa. Its proximity to Bole International Airport, restaurants, hotels, shopping centers, offices, and major roads makes it particularly convenient for professionals, expatriates, business travelers, and international organizations. The area also has a wide selection of furnished apartments, making it a common choice for people who need a move-in-ready home. However, convenience often comes with a higher rental price. Premium furnished apartments and properties in highly accessible parts of Bole can be considerably more expensive than similar apartments in other parts of Addis Ababa. For renters who prioritize location and convenience, Bole remains an important area to consider.
Kazanchis
Kazanchis is a centrally located neighborhood with strong demand for residential apartments. Its proximity to offices, hotels, embassies, international organizations, and major business areas makes it convenient for professionals working in central Addis Ababa. The area has a mixture of older residential buildings and newer developments, so rental prices can vary significantly from one property to another. When comparing apartments in Kazanchis, renters should consider the building's condition, parking, security, furnishing, and access to major roads in addition to the monthly rent.
CMC
CMC is a major residential area in eastern Addis Ababa and offers a mixture of apartments, condominium developments, and other residential properties.
Compared with some of the city's most central neighborhoods, renters may find a wider range of options at different price points. The area can be particularly suitable for people who want a residential environment while maintaining access to major roads and services. Because CMC covers a relatively broad area, rental prices can vary depending on the exact location and property.
Summit
Summit has developed into an increasingly popular residential area, with apartments, condominiums, and other residential properties available for rent.
For renters looking for more space or newer residential developments, Summit can provide alternatives to some of the more expensive central neighborhoods. The exact rental price depends on factors such as apartment size, construction quality, furnishing, parking, security, and accessibility.
Ayat
Ayat is another residential area with a growing selection of apartments and condominium properties. The area can be attractive to renters looking for newer developments or larger residential communities. However, commuting time should also be considered when comparing rental properties, particularly for people who work in central Addis Ababa or Bole. A lower monthly rent may not necessarily mean lower overall living costs if transportation expenses and commuting time are significantly higher.
Gerji
Gerji is located in eastern Addis Ababa and offers a range of residential properties at different price points. Its access to major roads and proximity to areas such as Bole make it a practical option for some renters. As with other neighborhoods, the rental price of an apartment in Gerji depends on factors such as the building, apartment size, furnishing, amenities, and exact location.
Megenagna
Yeka covers a large residential area and includes a mixture of houses, apartments, condominiums, and newer developments. Because of the size of the area, rental prices can vary considerably between different parts of Yeka. Renters should therefore look beyond the neighborhood name and consider the property's specific location, road access, nearby services, transportation options, and overall condition.
Old Airport
Old Airport is one of Addis Ababa's established residential neighborhoods and is known for its proximity to central areas, offices, embassies, restaurants, and other services. The neighborhood includes apartments as well as larger houses and villas. Properties with good access, modern finishes, and quality amenities can command higher rental prices. For renters who value a central and established residential environment, Old Airport can be worth considering.
1-Bedroom Apartment for Rent in Addis Ababa
A 1-bedroom apartment for rent in Addis Ababa can be a practical option for individuals and couples who do not need a large amount of living space.
Rental prices vary significantly depending on the neighborhood and whether the apartment is furnished. A furnished one-bedroom apartment in a central area can cost considerably more than an unfurnished apartment in a less central neighborhood. When comparing one-bedroom apartments, consider more than just the monthly rent. Building security, water availability, electricity reliability, parking, internet access, transportation, and the condition of the apartment can all affect the overall value.
2-Bedroom Apartment for Rent in Addis Ababa
A 2-bedroom apartment for rent in Addis Ababa is a common choice for small families, couples who need additional space, and professionals sharing accommodation. Two-bedroom apartments are available in many parts of the city, but prices can differ substantially between neighborhoods. For example, renters comparing Bole, Kazanchis, CMC, Summit, and Ayat should consider both the rental price and what is included with the property.A newer apartment with parking, security, reliable water, and modern finishes may have a higher rent than an older apartment with the same number of bedrooms.
3-Bedroom Apartment for Rent in Addis Ababa
A 3-bedroom apartment for rent in Addis Ababa is generally more suitable for families or renters who need additional living and bedroom space. Three-bedroom apartments tend to have higher monthly rents, particularly when they are furnished or located in high-demand neighborhoods.For families, factors such as parking, security, access to schools, transportation, supermarkets, healthcare facilities, and the overall residential environment can be just as important as the advertised rental price.
Furnished vs. Unfurnished Apartments in Addis Ababa
One of the most important decisions when renting an apartment in Addis Ababa is whether to choose a furnished or unfurnished property.
Furnished apartments
Furnished apartments typically include items such as beds, sofas, dining furniture, kitchen equipment, appliances, curtains, and other household necessities.
They can be particularly convenient for:
- Expatriates relocating to Addis Ababa
- Employees on temporary assignments
- Business travelers staying for several months
- People moving from another city or country
- Renters who want to move in without purchasing furniture
The convenience of a furnished apartment generally comes with a higher monthly rental price.
Unfurnished apartments
Unfurnished apartments can be more suitable for long-term renters who already have furniture or are willing to furnish their home. Although the initial cost of furnishing can be significant, an unfurnished apartment may provide more flexibility for someone planning to stay for several years. The better choice depends on your length of stay, budget, lifestyle, and whether you already have furniture.
What Determines Apartment Rent in Addis Ababa?
Two apartments with the same number of bedrooms can have very different rental prices. Several factors influence what landlords and property owners ask for a property.
Location
Location is one of the strongest factors affecting rent. Apartments close to business districts, international organizations, embassies, airports, restaurants, shopping areas, and major roads can attract higher rents.
Apartment size
A larger apartment generally costs more than a smaller apartment of the same type. However, price per square meter and overall value can vary significantly between neighborhoods.
Furnishing
Furnished apartments usually have higher asking rents because the renter is also paying for the convenience of having furniture and household equipment already available.
Building quality
Newer buildings with modern finishes, elevators, parking, security systems, backup power, water systems, and other amenities may command higher rental prices.
Amenities
Amenities such as parking, security, elevators, balconies, gyms, reliable water, backup electricity, and internet availability can influence rental prices.
Accessibility
An apartment with convenient access to major roads, workplaces, schools, shopping areas, and public transportation can be more desirable, particularly for people with daily commuting requirements.
How to Find an Apartment for Rent in Addis Ababa
Finding the right apartment is easier when you compare properties based on your actual needs rather than looking at rental price alone. Start by deciding your preferred neighborhood, maximum monthly budget, apartment size, and whether you need a furnished or unfurnished property. You should also consider parking, security, transportation, water and electricity availability, and proximity to work or school. Online property listings can help you compare available apartments before arranging viewings. This is particularly useful for people relocating to Addis Ababa or searching for accommodation from outside the city. At Live Ethio, you can browse available apartments for rent in Addis Ababa and compare properties based on your requirements. Once you find a suitable property, arrange a viewing and confirm the rental price, availability, included amenities, deposit requirements, and other rental terms before making a commitment.
Frequently Asked Questions About Renting an Apartment in Addis Ababa
How much is an apartment for rent in Addis Ababa?
There is no single rental price for apartments in Addis Ababa. The monthly rent depends on the neighborhood, number of bedrooms, furnishing, building quality, amenities, and exact location. For example, current furnished listings in Bole include one-bedroom apartments starting from around 120,000 ETB per month, while larger furnished apartments can cost substantially more.
What is the cheapest area to rent an apartment in Addis Ababa?
Rental prices vary within every neighborhood, so there is not one area that is always the cheapest. Renters looking for affordable apartments should compare properties across several neighborhoods and consider areas farther from the city's most expensive central locations.
How much is a 1-bedroom apartment in Addis Ababa?
The price of a one-bedroom apartment depends heavily on location and whether it is furnished. Furnished apartments in premium neighborhoods can cost significantly more than basic unfurnished apartments in other parts of the city.
Is it cheaper to rent a furnished or unfurnished apartment?
Unfurnished apartments generally have lower monthly asking rents than comparable furnished apartments. However, furnished apartments can be more convenient because they eliminate the need to purchase furniture and household equipment.
Which areas are popular for renting apartments in Addis Ababa?
Bole, Kazanchis, CMC, Summit, Ayat, Gerji, Yeka, Old Airport, and Saris are among the areas renters can consider. The right neighborhood depends on your budget, workplace, transportation needs, preferred lifestyle, and apartment requirements.
What should I check before renting an apartment?
Before renting, check the property's condition, water and electricity availability, security, parking, included amenities, access to transportation, rental terms, deposit requirements, and the exact monthly rent. Whenever possible, visit the property before signing an agreement.
Find Apartments for Rent in Addis Ababa
The best apartment for you will depend on more than just the monthly rent. Your preferred neighborhood, apartment size, furnishing requirements, commute, amenities, and length of stay should all be considered when comparing available properties. Whether you are looking for a 1-bedroom, 2-bedroom, or 3-bedroom apartment for rent in Addis Ababa, comparing multiple listings can help you understand what is available within your budget.
Browse Live Ethio's available apartments for rent in Addis Ababa to find properties that match your location, budget, and housing requirements.