When the cost of living keeps rising, finding a state where you can live comfortably without breaking the bank is a top priority for many Nigerians. Whether you’re a young professional, a retiree, or a student, the search for affordable housing, transport, food, and utilities is more crucial than ever.Top 10 Most Affordable States to Live in Nigeria
This guide explores the Top 10 most affordable state to live in Nigeria, offering practical insights into the cost of living, local economies, and what makes each location ideal for budget-conscious living.
What Makes a State “Affordable” in Nigeria?
Affordability varies from person to person, but key indicators include:
- Low housing and rent prices
- Affordable food and transportation
- Access to public services and infrastructure
- Lower overall cost of utilities and daily living
Let’s dive into the list.
1. Enugu State
Known as the “Coal City,” Enugu offers a balance between urban infrastructure and low cost of living. Rents are significantly cheaper than cities like Abuja or Lagos, and transport is relatively affordable due to the small size of the city.
Why it’s affordable:
- Low cost of housing (1-bedroom flat for ₦80,000–₦150,000 yearly)
- Cheap local transportation
- Food is affordable due to proximity to farming communities
👉 Read more about cost of living in Enugu
2. Oyo State
Ibadan, the capital of Oyo State, is one of the largest cities in Nigeria but remains surprisingly affordable. Its low housing costs and thriving local markets make it ideal for students and families.
Cost Benefits:
- Rent is as low as ₦100,000/year in less dense areas
- Abundant food supply from local farms
- Public transportation (micra taxis and bikes) is cheap
3. Benue State
Nicknamed the “Food Basket of the Nation,” Benue is a haven for affordable, fresh produce. If you’re looking to save on food, this state is a smart choice.
Affordability Highlights:
- Rent ranges from ₦60,000–₦120,000/year
- Inexpensive local dishes and produce
- Friendly cost of utilities due to low demand
4. Ekiti State
A peaceful and education-focused state, Ekiti offers a tranquil lifestyle and very low cost of living. The capital city, Ado-Ekiti, is developing but remains budget-friendly.
Key Points:
- Rent for a 2-bedroom flat as low as ₦90,000/year
- Affordable school fees and public services
- Ideal for retirees or low-income families
Top 10 Most Affordable States to Live in Nigeria
5. Osun State
Home to Ife and Osogbo, Osun combines tradition with affordability. It’s rich in culture and offers a slower, cheaper lifestyle.
Cost-saving features:
- Basic meals under ₦500
- Transportation (bikes and buses) under ₦100 per trip
- University areas offer cheap housing options
6. Kano State
Northern Nigeria’s commercial hub, Kano is bustling yet surprisingly cheap. With vast markets and low food prices, it caters well to budget-conscious individuals.
Budget-friendly Factors:
- Shared flats available for ₦50,000–₦100,000/year
- Low utility costs due to dry climate
- Markets like Sabon Gari offer bulk food at low prices
7. Anambra State
Anambra, especially Awka and Onitsha, offers a mix of business and low living costs. It’s a favorite among traders and middle-income families.
Why it makes the list:
- Affordable rent in Onitsha (₦100,000/year and below)
- Plentiful job opportunities in trade and small businesses
- Strong community life reduces personal expenses
8. Niger State
Located in central Nigeria, Niger is less populated and rich in land, water, and affordable housing. Minna, the capital, is quiet and conducive to modest living.
Living Advantages:
- 1-bedroom apartments as low as ₦60,000/year
- Basic utility bills often under ₦5,000/month
- Excellent road network for low-cost transport
9. Kogi State
With its location at Nigeria’s center, Kogi is a transit hub with simple living options. Lokoja offers both scenic beauty and low living costs.
Cost-effective Features:
- Access to cheap housing (₦80,000–₦120,000/year)
- Affordable restaurants and roadside meals
- Abundant public water supply and electricity
10. Cross River State
Calabar, the capital, is well-known for its cleanliness, hospitality, and relatively affordable living. Though more urbanized, Calabar remains cost-friendly for middle-income earners.
Affordability Aspects:
- Rents lower than other South-South cities
- Local dishes like afang soup and ekpang nkukwo are both cheap and filling
- Transportation using tricycles is inexpensive
Quick Comparison Table
| State | Average Annual Rent (₦) | Food Cost | Transport | Overall Living Index |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Enugu | 80,000–150,000 | Low | Low | Very Affordable |
| Oyo | 100,000–180,000 | Moderate | Low | Affordable |
| Benue | 60,000–120,000 | Very Low | Low | Very Affordable |
| Ekiti | 90,000–150,000 | Low | Moderate | Very Affordable |
| Osun | 70,000–130,000 | Low | Low | Affordable |
| Kano | 50,000–100,000 | Very Low | Very Low | Extremely Affordable |
| Anambra | 100,000–170,000 | Moderate | Low | Affordable |
| Niger | 60,000–100,000 | Low | Low | Very Affordable |
| Kogi | 80,000–120,000 | Low | Low | Affordable |
| Cross River | 110,000–180,000 | Moderate | Low | Affordable |
Key Insights
- Northern States like Kano and Niger offer the cheapest overall lifestyle, especially in terms of housing and food.
- Southern States like Cross River and Osun blend affordability with better infrastructure and lifestyle amenities.
- Food-producing states like Benue and Ekiti are great for saving on nutrition and fresh produce.
- Student-friendly states like Oyo and Enugu provide flexible housing and accessible transport.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking to cut costs, improve your savings, or simply live more comfortably on a tight budget, these top 10 most affordable state to live in Nigeria provide a solid starting point. Each state offers unique benefits, so your decision may depend on personal preference—whether that’s proximity to family, job opportunities, or a peaceful environment.
Ready to Explore Affordable Living?
Are you considering relocating for a more affordable lifestyle? Let us know which Nigerian state you’re interested in! Drop a comment below, or subscribe to get more guides like this. You can also explore our other cost-of-living articles for in-depth comparisons.Top 10 Most Affordable States to Live in Nigeria
