The housing landscape in Aizawl is visually striking. Because flat land is almost non-existent, homes and multi-story apartment buildings are constructed on stilts directly into the steep hillsides, often leading to structures where the street-level entrance is actually the top floor of the building.
There is a high demand for rental housing due to the constant influx of students and government workers from other districts. Consequently, rental costs have risen significantly over the past decade. The real estate market is tight, and land prices are premium. Modern condominiums are beginning to appear, but the majority of housing consists of independently built, reinforced concrete homes.