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Understanding the shift in urban and peri-urban housing trends
The rise of remote work in Zimbabwe is transforming property demand across urban centers and peri-urban areas. In cities like Harare, Bulawayo, and Mutare, young professionals and tech-savvy workers are rethinking where and how they live, creating new trends in rental and property purchases.
According to a 2025 survey of Zimbabwean urban workers, 38% of professionals reported working remotely at least 2–3 days per week, with 25% planning to work remotely full-time. This shift is influencing both rental demand and the type of housing buyers seek.
1. Urban-to-Peri-Urban Migration
Remote work enables professionals to leave high-cost city centers for more spacious properties in peri-urban areas such as Norton, Ruwa, Chitungwiza, and Marondera. Average rental rates in Harare city center have risen by 8%–12% annually, pushing remote workers to seek affordable alternatives with larger living spaces and gardens.
Example:
- A 2-bedroom apartment in central Harare averages USD 700/month, while a similar property in Norton or Ruwa is USD 350–450/month, often with additional space and amenities.
2. Increased Demand for Home Offices and Flexible Spaces
Remote workers prioritize homes with designated workspaces, reliable internet, and quiet environments. Real estate developers are responding by offering:
- Properties with home offices or convertible rooms
- Co-living and shared workspaces within residential estates
- Enhanced internet infrastructure in newer developments
A local property platform reported a 20% increase in inquiries for homes with extra rooms suitable for offices between 2024 and 2025.
3. Effect on Rental Markets
Remote work is creating segmented rental markets:
- City center rentals remain high for professionals valuing proximity to business hubs.
- Suburban and peri-urban rentals are increasingly popular for families and remote workers, with occupancy rates above 90% in popular estates.
This trend suggests a long-term shift in housing demand, potentially redefining investment strategies for both developers and landlords.
Conclusion
Remote work is reshaping property demand in Zimbabwe, favoring flexible, spacious, and affordable housing outside traditional urban centers. Developers and investors must account for this trend to align supply with evolving market needs.
Key Stats Recap:
- 38% of urban professionals work remotely at least part-time.
- 25% plan full-time remote work.
- City center rents have increased 8–12% annually.
- 20% rise in inquiries for homes with dedicated workspaces.
