One of the number one questions landlords ask is ‘How much rent should I charge?’. And for good reasons, setting the right rent is essential to attracting quality tenants and ensuring you get the most out of your investment.

The first step in setting the right rent price is understanding the market. As of mid-2025, the median weekly rent in Hamilton sits around $590, but this can vary widely depending on your property’s size, the location, any stand out features and condition of the property.

Larger homes in desirable suburbs like Chartwell, Rototuna, or Hillcrest tend to command higher rents. Central suburbs such as Frankton and Hamilton East are also popular, especially with students and professionals. The sweet spot for most Hamilton homes ranges between $600 and $800 per week, depending on size and suburb.

We’ve pulled together a quick overview of average weekly rents in Hamilton based on the number of bedrooms your property has.

1-bedroom homes: $490 to $650
2-bedroom homes: $580 to $670
3-bedroom homes: $650 to $750
4-bedroom homes: $780 to $850+

Next is understanding the key factors that influence rent.

1. Location
Properties near schools, public transport, or key amenities like The Base or Waikato Hospital tend to attract more demand and justify higher rent.

2. Size and Layout
A well-maintained 3-bedroom home with 2 bathrooms typically sits around $700 per week, but homes with an extra bedroom or second living space can provide opportunities to increase the weekly rent.

3. Features and Condition
Modern kitchens, insulation, heat pumps, off-street parking, and pet-friendly setups can all increase your rental value by $20 to $50 per week.

4. Healthy Homes Compliance
All rental properties in New Zealand must meet the Healthy Homes Standards. A compliant property is not only legally required, but also more attractive to renters.

5. Market Conditions
Hamilton’s rental market is competitive, with low vacancy rates and increasing demand. However, pricing too high can lead to less interest in your property. It’s important to monitor comparable listings and adjust your rate if needed.

What about Rental Appraisals?

If you’re unsure what you should be charging, a rental appraisal is a great place to start. Our qualified property management team offers this service for free and they can provide you with their best recommendations, along with a detailed breakdown based on current market data, property features, and local demand.

Final Tips for Setting Rent

Do your research using websites like Trade Me, Tenancy Services, and myRent.co.nz to compare similar homes in your area.
Play around with the Tenancy Services Rental Calculator to get a price indication for your area.
Aim for a price that balances return and occupancy
Review rent annually to stay in line with market changes
Work with a property manager if you want support with pricing, tenant selection, and ongoing management.