Around the world, some people prefer renting homes while others buy and own them. This depends on things like income levels, house prices, government rules, and even cultural habits.
In 2024, these countries have the highest number of people living in rented homes, according to Eurostat:
| Rank | Country | % of People Renting |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Germany | 50.9% |
| 2 | Austria | 45.8% |
| 3 | Denmark | 40.8% |
| 4 | France | 35.3% |
| 5 | Sweden | 35.1% |
| 6 | EU Average | 30.1% |
| 7 | Ireland | 30.0% |
| 8 | Netherlands | 29.9% |
| 9 | Finland | 29.7% |
| 10 | Luxembourg | 28.9% |
Why Do So Many People Rent Instead of Own?
- High Housing Costs: In many places, homes are too expensive to buy, so people rent instead.
- Moving to Cities: A lot of people are moving to cities for work, and city housing is usually rented.
- Stronger Economies: Countries with stable economies often have more rules and protections for renters, making it safer to rent.
- Government Support: Some governments offer rental help or pass laws that make renting easier and fairer.
What About Africa?
In many African countries, renting is the main option for housing—especially in big cities. Why?
- Homes are expensive to buy
- Getting a loan to buy a house is hard
- Lots of people are moving into cities quickly
Cities with high rental demand include:
- South Africa: Johannesburg and Cape Town
- Nigeria: Lagos and Abuja
- Kenya: Nairobi
- Egypt: Cairo
In these places, there aren’t enough affordable homes, so renting is common—even though rent prices can be high.
Governments are trying to fix the problem with new housing plans, but challenges like informal settlements, high rent, and not enough homes are still common.
Conclusion
Many people across the world—and especially in African cities—choose to rent because buying a home is too expensive or difficult.
As urban areas grow, more people will continue to rent, and governments are working on ways to make renting more affordable and secure.