Apartment hunting in Addis? One of the first questions you’ll face is this: furnished or unfurnished? It might sound like a small detail, but trust us it can make a big difference in your day-to-day life (and your budget). Maybe you're a returning diaspora ready to settle in, or an expat looking for an apartment for rent in Addis Ababa. Or maybe you're just tired of hauling sofas up narrow staircases. Either way, this quick guide breaks down the pros and cons of both options so you can figure out what actually works best for you.
Furnished Apartments in Addis: Convenience at a Price
Furnished apartments come move-in ready, typically including:
- Beds, sofas, dining sets
- Kitchen appliances (fridge, stove, microwave)
- Basic cookware and utensils
- Curtains, lighting fixtures, and sometimes even decor
✅ Pros:
- Immediate move-in: No need to spend time or money furnishing your new home.
- Ideal for short stays: Great for diplomats, expats, business travelers, or those in Addis for temporary assignments.
- Higher-end interiors: Many furnished units are stylishly decorated, especially in premium neighborhoods like Bole, Sar Bet, or Kazanchis.
- Utilities often included: Some landlords bundle internet, water, and sometimes even cleaning services into the rent.
❌ Cons:
- Higher rent: You’re paying for the convenience and the furniture, which can push prices up significantly.
- Less flexibility: You may not love the furniture or layout—and swapping it out isn’t usually an option.
- Security deposits may be higher: To cover potential damage to the furnishings.
Unfurnished Apartments in Addis: Flexibility and Long-Term Value
Unfurnished apartments are usually bare-bones and may only include the basics like built-in wardrobes, kitchen cabinets, and light fixtures.
✅ Pros:
- Lower monthly rent: Unfurnished units are often more affordable over time.
- Design freedom: You can furnish and decorate the space to your own taste.
- Better for long stays: Ideal for residents planning to live in Addis for the long haul.
- Larger Spaces for Less: Unfurnished apartments often offer more space for the same price compared to furnished units.
- Better Choice in Local Neighborhoods: If you’re looking to live outside city center areas, unfurnished units offer more variety and availability.
❌ Cons:
- Initial setup cost: Buying furniture and appliances can be expensive and time-consuming.
- Logistics: Delivery delays and limited furniture stores can make furnishing a challenge.
- Not move-in ready: You’ll need to plan ahead before moving in.
- Harder to Relocate: Once you’re set up, moving becomes more difficult due to the amount of furniture and appliances you’ll need to transport.
Which Should You Choose?
Furnished is better if:
- You're staying short-term (less than 12 months)
- You want a stress-free move-in experience
- You prefer having everything included in one rent payment
- You’re an expat, consultant, or business traveler
Unfurnished is better if:
- You’re staying long-term (1+ years)
- You want to save money over time
- You prefer full control over your living space
- You already have furniture or want to invest in your own
Bonus Tip: Semi-Furnished Apartments
Some apartments in Addis Ababa are semi-furnished, offering a middle ground. They might include a few key appliances (like a fridge and stove), basic furniture, or built-in wardrobes but leave room for you to customize the rest. Perfect for long-term renters who want some essentials provided but still want the freedom to add personal touches.
✅ Pros:
- Lower rent than fully furnished
- Saves setup time and costs
- More flexibility than furnished units
❌ Cons:
- Inclusions vary by landlord
- May still need to buy key items
- Furniture may not match your style
Looking for property options? If you're searching for a place to stay, there are apartments for rent as well as condominiums for rent, offering modern living spaces. For those looking to invest or own, you can find apartments for sale along with condominiums for sale. For family homes, explore houses for rent, or consider houses for sale. Investors can also find land for sale for future development.