High rent and daily transport costs in some Nigerian cities make it tough to save, while others offer a more affordable lifestyle, allowing residents to stretch their income, build savings, or enjoy leisure without breaking the bank.
Understanding the cost of living in Nigerian cities can help you plan smarter, especially if you’re relocating for work, school, or starting your career.
Below, we break down key living costs—rent, utilities, transportation, groceries, and discretionary spending—across seven major cities: Lagos, Abuja, Port Harcourt, Ibadan, Kano, Calabar, and Enugu.
1. Lagos – High-Paced Hustle, High Rewards
As Nigeria’s commercial capital, Lagos offers unmatched opportunities in finance, tech, entertainment, and media. While rent can be steep in areas like Lekki and VI, affordable neighborhoods like Yaba, Surulere, and Ajah provide better value for young professionals.
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Rent: ₦600,000 – ₦2.5M/year (1-bedroom apartment)
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Transport: Ride-hailing apps and light rail ease heavy traffic
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Leisure: Vibrant nightlife in Ikeja, Lekki, and VI
✅ Best for career-driven individuals looking to grow in tech, media, or business.
2. Abuja – High Standard of Living in the Capital
Abuja’s clean layout and central governance role attract civil servants, consultants, and expatriates. Rent is higher than most cities, but infrastructure and security are more reliable.
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Rent: ₦800,000 – ₦3M/year (1-bedroom apartment)
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Transport: Well-maintained roads, taxi services
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Leisure: Maitama and Guzape offer upscale bars and lounges
✅ Ideal for professionals working in government, NGOs, or international firms.
3. Port Harcourt – Oil, Gas & Cultural Energy
As the heart of Nigeria’s oil and gas industry, Port Harcourt offers lucrative roles in energy, logistics, and consultancy. Neighborhoods like GRA Phase II strike a balance between cost and convenience.
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Rent: ₦500,000 – ₦1.8M/year
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Transport: Light traffic in central areas
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Leisure: Tombia Road nightlife, beachside grills, River Festivals
✅ Best for engineers, traders, and professionals in the energy sector.
4. Ibadan – Affordable & Academic-Friendly
Ibadan is one of the most affordable cities in Nigeria, making it perfect for students, entry-level workers, and creatives. With multiple tertiary institutions, it’s a hub for learning and innovation.
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Rent: ₦250,000 – ₦700,000/year
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Transport: Buses, tricycles, and low-cost taxis
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Leisure: Agodi Gardens, local music lounges
✅ Great for students, tech interns, and digital nomads seeking lower living costs.
5. Kano – Trade, Agriculture & Culture
Kano, the largest city in Northern Nigeria, is a hub for manufacturing, agribusiness, and trading. Rentals are low, and cost of living is modest.
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Rent: ₦200,000 – ₦600,000/year
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Transport: Easy movement within the city via tricycles and taxis
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Leisure: Kano Mall, cultural festivals, open-air cafés
✅ Perfect for entrepreneurs and those in agriculture or regional logistics.