10 Cheapest Cities in Nigeria (2024): Affordable Living in Nigeria’s Most Budget-Friendly Cities

When it comes to finding affordable cities to live in Nigeria, 2024 has brought forth a wealth of opportunities for both locals and expatriates. Whether you’re a student, a professional, or just looking to stretch your budget, Nigeria offers a range of cities where the cost of living remains relatively low. In this blog post, we will explore the 10 cheapest cities in Nigeria, highlighting their affordability in terms of housing, food, transportation, and general cost of living. If you’re looking for budget-friendly cities to settle in or visit, this guide will provide all the insights you need.

1. Ibadan – Oyo State

Ibadan, the capital of Oyo State, consistently ranks as one of the cheapest cities in Nigeria. Known for its rich history and vibrant culture, Ibadan offers incredibly affordable housing options and low transportation costs. Many residents find the cost of living here favorable, with low rent for apartments, cheap food prices, and readily available public transportation options like motorcycles (okadas) and minibuses (danfos).

• Rent: 1-bedroom apartment outside the city center costs around ₦100,000 – ₦150,000 annually.
• Food: Local markets sell affordable food items; a basket of tomatoes, for example, can go for as low as ₦300.
• Transportation: A bus ride within the city typically costs between ₦50 to ₦100.

2. Abeokuta – Ogun State

Abeokuta, a historically rich city known for its cultural significance, is another affordable city to live in Nigeria. It’s the capital of Ogun State and offers lower living costs compared to major cities like Lagos and Abuja. The cost of accommodation is particularly cheap, with homes in suburban areas being incredibly affordable.

• Rent: A 1-bedroom flat in Abeokuta can cost around ₦80,000 to ₦120,000 per year.
• Food: Food is also quite affordable. A loaf of bread costs around ₦300, and a meal at a local restaurant is about ₦500.
• Transportation: Okada and bus rides cost as low as ₦50 within the city.

3. Akure – Ondo State

Akure, the capital city of Ondo State, is another budget-friendly city in Nigeria. With its peaceful atmosphere and relatively low cost of living, it’s an attractive option for individuals and families looking for affordable places to reside. The city offers affordable housing, inexpensive groceries, and low transportation costs.

• Rent: A one-bedroom apartment in Akure can cost as low as ₦70,000 to ₦100,000 annually.
• Food: Buying from local markets is very cheap, with common household staples like rice and beans sold at affordable prices.
• Transportation: The average transportation fare within Akure is between ₦50 to ₦100.

4. Ilorin – Kwara State

Ilorin is the capital of Kwara State and is well-known for its affordability. The city boasts low rent prices and a cost of living that’s suitable for students and professionals alike. The serene environment and affordable food make it an excellent choice for those seeking a calm, inexpensive lifestyle.

• Rent: A one-bedroom apartment in Ilorin goes for ₦80,000 to ₦120,000 per year.
• Food: Ilorin’s food markets offer cheap produce, with a bunch of plantains costing as little as ₦200.
• Transportation: Local transportation costs range from ₦50 to ₦100 per trip.

5. Zaria – Kaduna State

Zaria, one of the major cities in Kaduna State, offers a very affordable cost of living. Housing, food, and transport are all reasonably priced. It is home to Ahmadu Bello University, which means the city attracts a large student population. As a result, costs remain relatively low, catering to students and other low-income earners.

• Rent: A single room apartment can cost as low as ₦50,000 – ₦80,000 per year.
• Food: Fresh produce and groceries are sold at competitive prices, with a kilo of beef priced around ₦1,000.
• Transportation: Transport fares within Zaria are low, typically around ₦30 to ₦50 for public taxis or buses.

6. Minna – Niger State

Minna, the capital city of Niger State, is another affordable city that offers a low cost of living in Nigeria. Its quiet and serene environment makes it suitable for people looking for a slower pace of life, and it is a great place for budget-conscious individuals. The city’s accommodation and daily expenses are relatively low compared to larger Nigerian cities.

• Rent: A one-bedroom apartment can cost as little as ₦60,000 to ₦100,000 annually.
• Food: Basic food items such as rice, yams, and beans are reasonably priced.
• Transportation: A ride within the city typically costs around ₦50 – ₦100.

7. Benin City – Edo State

Benin City, the capital of Edo State, offers a fairly affordable cost of living. It has a mix of urban and rural settings, allowing residents to enjoy low rent prices and affordable local produce. Although the city is growing, it still maintains its budget-friendly status.

• Rent: A one-bedroom apartment in Benin City costs around ₦80,000 to ₦120,000 per year.
• Food: Fresh food items such as garri, vegetables, and fish are available at low prices in the markets.
• Transportation: Public transportation fares within Benin City are quite affordable, with most trips costing between ₦50 to ₦100.

8. Owerri – Imo State

Owerri, the capital city of Imo State, is known for its rich cultural heritage and affordable lifestyle. It’s a bustling city, but the cost of living remains relatively low compared to other eastern cities. Rent, food, and transport are all available at budget-friendly prices.

• Rent: A 1-bedroom apartment in Owerri costs around ₦70,000 to ₦100,000 annually.
• Food: Local delicacies and fresh produce are available at cheap rates in markets and restaurants.
• Transportation: Taxis and keke napep rides cost between ₦50 and ₦100 for short distances.

9. Makurdi – Benue State

Makurdi, the capital of Benue State, is another affordable city to live in. Known as the “food basket of the nation,” food prices are especially cheap, making it a great place for those looking to cut down on food expenses. Housing and transportation are also affordable in this agriculturally rich city.

• Rent: Rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Makurdi ranges from ₦60,000 to ₦100,000 per year.
• Food: Locally produced food is abundant and inexpensive.
• Transportation: Public transportation is affordable, with a bus ride costing around ₦50 to ₦100.

10. Uyo – Akwa Ibom State

Uyo, the capital city of Akwa Ibom State, is one of the most affordable cities in southern Nigeria. It has a growing economy, but the cost of living remains lower compared to other major cities. With low rent prices and affordable food, Uyo is a great option for those seeking a cheaper place to live.

• Rent: A one-bedroom apartment costs around ₦80,000 to ₦120,000 per year.
• Food: Local delicacies, especially seafood, are available at budget-friendly prices.
• Transportation: Public transport costs around ₦50 to ₦100 for most trips within the city.

Conclusion

If you’re looking to cut down on your living expenses, Nigeria offers several cities with affordable costs of living. Cities like Ibadan, Abeokuta, and Ilorin stand out as prime destinations for budget-conscious individuals, offering low rent prices, inexpensive food, and cheap transportation. Whether you’re a student, a young professional, or a family looking for affordable living options, these cities in Nigeria provide a great mix of urban conveniences and budget-friendly living. Moving to one of these cities in 2024 could be a great decision for those looking to manage their finances more effectively without sacrificing comfort.

By choosing any of these cities, you’ll not only experience Nigeria’s rich culture but also enjoy a cost-effective lifestyle.