rocinha has an active real estate market, with homes ranging from very developed multi-story constructions, to simple brick houses. it is estimated that 30% of all homes are rentals.   the cost of a very basic, unfinished, 2-room house is about 40,000 br$, while the cost to rent it would be about br$ 500/month. 

homes in rocinha are in high demand, and there is always a waiting list for occupancy. unlike other less developed favelas in the metropolitan area, rocinha is relatively advanced, with banks, a post office, health centers, gyms, law offices, public schools, shops, markets, bars, show-houses, fast-food, internet cafés, tour guides, and pousadas.  

the opening of additional pousadas has been announced by the government, to be built in laboriaux, the highest part of the hill.