Introduction to Dhaka’s Rental Market
Dhaka, the buzzing capital of Bangladesh, is a city full of life, opportunity, and relentless movement. Whether you're a student, a working professional, or someone relocating with family, the hunt for a suitable flat in Dhaka can feel like a maze—crowded, confusing, and competitive.
But fear not! This comprehensive guide will help you understand everything about flat rent in Dhaka, from average costs and top areas to hidden fees and smart renting tips.
Current Average Flat Rents in Dhaka (2025)
Here’s a breakdown of the current rental rates in popular categories:
Studio Apartment: ৳7,000 – ৳15,000
1 Bedroom Apartment: ৳10,000 – ৳20,000
2 Bedroom Apartment: ৳15,000 – ৳35,000
3 Bedroom Apartment: ৳25,000 – ৳70,000+
For luxury or fully furnished flats in premium zones like Gulshan or Baridhara, rent can go beyond ৳100,000/month.
Best Areas to Rent Flats in Dhaka
Gulshan
Known for its diplomatic zone, modern apartments, and secured living. Ideal for expats and upper-income residents.
Banani
A lively, upscale area with cafes, co-working spaces, and boutiques. Perfect for young professionals.
Dhanmondi
An old yet elite neighborhood. Great for families due to its schools, hospitals, and parks.
Uttara
Well-planned and affordable, with lots of schools and wide roads. A top choice for middle-class families.
Mirpur
Budget-friendly and densely populated. Offers good public transport and a wide range of options.
Bashundhara R/A
Quiet and clean with wide streets, shopping malls, and new developments. Popular among young families and professionals.
Mohammadpur
An affordable option with a mix of older flats and new buildings. Close to educational institutions.
Factors That Affect Rent Prices in Dhaka
1. Location
The more central or posh the area, the higher the rent. Gulshan, Banani, and Baridhara top the list.
2. Size of the Flat
Naturally, the bigger the apartment, the more you’ll pay. But layout also matters—some 2-bedroom flats feel more spacious than 3-bedroom ones.
3. Building Amenities
Lift, generator, security, car parking, rooftop access—these all add to the price.
4. Furnishing
Furnished flats cost significantly more than unfurnished ones. Semi-furnished options are rising in popularity.
New Trends in the Rental Market (2024–2025)
Digital Listings: Platforms like Bproperty and Bikroy have changed how people search for homes.
Remote Work Influence: People now look for home office space or better internet connections.
Furnished Living: The demand for ready-to-move-in flats is increasing.
Green and Smart Features: Renters are more conscious about natural light, ventilation, and security.
Living Expenses Beyond Rent
Remember, rent isn’t your only cost. Here’s what else to consider:
Utilities (electricity, gas, water): ৳3,000 – ৳10,000/month
Internet and TV: ৳1,000 – ৳2,000/month
Service charge/maintenance: ৳1,000 – ৳5,000/month
Transport/commute: Highly location-dependent
Tips for Renting a Flat in Dhaka
Always visit the flat before finalizing—pictures can be deceiving.
Ask about hidden costs, like service charge or parking fees.
Negotiate the rent—landlords usually leave room for it.
Read the agreement thoroughly. Don’t skip clauses on notice period, rent increase, or advance return.
Talk to neighbors—they’ll tell you the real story about the building.
Short-Term vs. Long-Term Rentals
Short-Term Rentals
Ideal for students, freelancers, or short projects
Often furnished
Expensive per month but flexible
Long-Term Rentals
Better for families or those settling in
Require 2–3 months’ advance
Cheaper in the long run
For Expats: Renting Made Easy
Expats typically prefer secure and premium areas. Some must-knows:
Stick to Gulshan, Baridhara, or Banani
Use verified agents or websites like bproperty.com
Always sign a formal contract
Ensure the building has security and backup power
Some landlords may ask for references or work documents
Avoid These Common Mistakes
Renting without a visit
Ignoring utility and service charge discussions
Not signing a written agreement
Paying cash without receipts
Choosing a flat based only on photos
Should You Hire a Property Agent?
Pros
Saves time and effort
More listings and insider access
Helps with paperwork
Cons
Charges a commission (usually 1 month’s rent)
Some agents are not trustworthy—always verify credentials
Best Online Platforms for Finding Flats
Bproperty.com – Verified and professional listings
Bikroy.com – Classifieds with diverse price points
Facebook Groups – Check “Flat Rent in Dhaka” for real-time posts
To-Let Apps – Some mobile apps also offer useful filters and notifications
Extra Costs to Watch For
Advance Payment: 2–3 months usually
Service Charge: Confirm if included in rent
Parking Fees: May be separate
Furnishing Charge: If the flat includes furniture/appliances
Future Outlook for Flat Rentals in Dhaka
The housing market in Dhaka is going digital and smart:
Virtual flat tours are becoming common
Online rent payments and digital agreements
Co-living spaces gaining popularity
Smart buildings with automation and solar power
Expect more comfort, security, and tech-savvy features in the near future.
Conclusion
Finding the right flat to rent in Dhaka doesn’t have to be a stressful experience. Know your budget, choose your location wisely, inspect the property, and always clarify terms with the landlord. Whether you want a budget-friendly studio in Mirpur or a luxury apartment in Gulshan, Dhaka’s rental market has something for everyone.