Mumbai's real estate market is entering 2026 on the back of strong infrastructure momentum, steady premium housing demand, and large-scale redevelopment across key corridors. From new metro lines to the Mumbai Trans Harbour Link and the Navi Mumbai International Airport, connectivity upgrades are reshaping buyer preferences across the Mumbai Metropolitan Region.

Industry experts believe that homebuying activity in 2026 will increasingly cluster around infrastructure-led growth corridors. Areas with available land parcels, redevelopment potential, and improved commute times are expected to see sustained traction from both end-users and investors.

Several micro-markets near the newly operational Navi Mumbai International Airport are projected to witness strong demand, particularly because they remain among the few pockets in MMR where 2 BHK and 3 BHK homes are still available under ₹1 crore.

According to Ritesh Mehta, Senior Director and Head (North and West), Residential Services and Developer Initiatives at JLL India, buyer interest in 2026 is likely to focus on locations where infrastructure expansion aligns with new housing supply. He highlights central and eastern corridors as well as Navi Mumbai as emerging beneficiaries.

1) Vikhroli-Wadala Belt

The eastern corridor is seeing fresh supply driven by redevelopment, slum rehabilitation projects and the monetisation of land parcels along the Eastern Express Highway.

Wadala, in particular, stands out due to its strategic location between South Mumbai and the suburbs. Connectivity through the Monorail, Eastern Express Highway and the upcoming Metro Line 4 enhances its appeal. The Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority is also planning land releases to support expansion around the Bandra Kurla Complex.

Current apartment prices:

• Vikhroli: ₹20,000 to ₹30,000 per sq ft
• Wadala: ₹20,000 to ₹45,000 per sq ft

The area is emerging as a viable option for mid-income families seeking central access with improving infrastructure.

2) Parel-Sewri Corridor

Central Mumbai's Parel-Sewri stretch has gained momentum following the operational Mumbai Trans Harbour Link. The upcoming Sewri-Worli Connector is expected to further enhance connectivity between Navi Mumbai and the Mumbai Coastal Road.

This corridor benefits from proximity to established commercial hubs and improved access to South Mumbai.

Current apartment prices:

• Parel: ₹40,000 to ₹50,000 per sq ft
• Sewri: ₹20,000 to ₹35,000 per sq ft

The combination of redevelopment and connectivity upgrades continues to drive interest in this belt.

3) Western Suburbs

Borivali, Kandivali, Malad and Goregaon have seen substantial connectivity improvements through metro expansion over the past few years. The ongoing Coastal Road project is expected to further enhance commute times.

The western suburbs continue to attract buyers due to social infrastructure, established residential pockets and a mix of mid-range to premium housing options.

Current apartment prices:

• ₹20,000 to ₹50,000 per sq ft, depending on micro-location

These areas remain suitable for both end-users and investors looking for established neighbourhoods with steady rental demand.

4) Navi Mumbai International Airport Belt

The belt around the Navi Mumbai International Airport is widely viewed as one of the most promising growth corridors in MMR. The airport, the Mumbai Trans Harbour Link and township developments are driving demand in Panvel, Kharghar and Vashi.

Average capital values in this region are around ₹8,700 per sq ft, with rental yields close to 4 percent.

Key micro-markets:

• Ulwe: ₹40 lakh to ₹80 lakh for 1 and compact 2 BHK units
• Taloja: ₹45 lakh to ₹90 lakh
• Kharghar: 1 BHK units from around ₹80 lakh

This corridor remains attractive for early-stage investors and end-users seeking relatively affordable options within the broader MMR landscape.

5) Mira Road-Bhayandar Belt

Located in Thane district and adjoining Dahisar and Borivali, the Mira Road-Bhayandar belt is expected to benefit from upcoming metro connectivity and improved access through the Coastal Road.

It continues to offer relatively lower entry points compared to core Mumbai locations.

Current apartment prices:

• ₹10,000 to ₹20,000 per sq ft

The belt appeals to budget-conscious buyers seeking connectivity improvements and long-term appreciation potential.

Infrastructure development is expected to be the primary driver of homebuying patterns in MMR in 2026. Corridors linked to new metro lines, airport connectivity and road infrastructure are likely to outperform broader markets. While central and western pockets continue to see steady demand, emerging belts around Navi Mumbai and eastern corridors may offer relatively better value and long-term appreciation prospects. Buyers, however, should assess income stability, project quality and location fundamentals before making investment decisions.