Ukrainian citizens whose homes were affected by the hostilities are forming the main demand for housing in Chernihiv. Despite the war and the proximity to the front line, by the end of 2025 this regional center became one of the leaders in housing price growth on the Left Bank, showing dynamics close to the major cities of the country.
Inna Rizukha, Head of the Chernihiv Regional Office of the NGO “Union of Real Estate Professionals of Ukraine” (SFNU), explains the current situation on the housing market in Chernihiv.
Background
As of early 2026, prices on the secondary market increased as follows:
• One-room apartments in good condition rose by about 11% (average price around $34,000).
• Two-room apartments grew by 18% (around $50,000).
• Three-room apartments remained almost stable, adding about 2% (around $58,000).
Rent:
• One-room apartments ranged from 4,000 to 7,000 UAH.
• Two-room apartments from 6,000 to 10,000 UAH.
• Three-room apartments — from 6,000 UAH and higher.
• Premium‑segment apartments were rented out from 10,000 UAH by the end of 2025.
Ms. Inna, what is the situation (the trends) on the secondary housing market in Chernihiv? Prices? Dynamics? The impact of state programs?
The secondary market is currently quite active, though characterized by distinct waves of demand. The main drivers are state programs such as eVidnovlennia, eOselya, and government subsidies. Approximately 80% of all transactions now take place thanks to these instruments.
The dynamics are wave-like: as soon as new certificates or payments are issued, activity rises immediately — phones are “hot,” people actively view properties and conclude deals. When financing is delayed or no new payments appear, there is silence for several weeks.
Demand is also strongly influenced by the security situation: if there are active explosions in the city or region, people stop going to viewings, which instantly slows the market.
Who forms the demand? Who is buying?
The main category of buyers consists of families or individuals who have certificates or access to state programs. Many purchase homes for themselves — often their first home. The overall demand is concentrated in apartments up to ~$50,000. This shapes the supply: many sellers target this price range because they know such apartments sell best.
What is the situation (trends) on the primary housing market?
The primary market is also moving, but it is more sensitive to the general economic situation and construction pace. New buildings with repairs can cost $1,100–1,200 per m², though this depends on the building class, district, infrastructure, and developer.
Which local factors influence prices in these segments?
For new construction, the key factors include:
• District — areas closer to the center or major transport/work hubs tend to be more expensive.
• Infrastructure — nearby schools, kindergartens, parks; and some districts (not many) where electricity is not switched off.
• Safety — safer areas are always more expensive and show higher sales activity; people avoid locations near military sites or factories.
Buyers are not enthusiastic about “all‑electric” high‑rise buildings (where all household systems — cooking, hot water, and heating — run exclusively on electricity via electric stoves, boilers, heat pumps, electric boilers, or centralized electric heating).
For the secondary market, additional factors include the apartment’s condition: renovation, layout, floor, elevator, and overall building condition.
What is the situation (trends) on the rental market? How quickly is housing rented out?
Rentals move quickly if the apartment is in good condition and priced adequately. In desirable districts, the time to rent can range from a few days to two weeks. If the apartment has issues or the price is too high, it takes longer.
