Cost of Living in Nigeria 2026: A Comprehensive Guide to Living Expenses

For anyone looking to relocate or invest, the cost of living in Nigeria in 2026 is defined by a unique paradox: it remains one of the most affordable countries for those earning in foreign currency, while local living expenses in Nigeria have reached historic highs in Naira.

With the Naira stabilizing between ₦1,430 and ₦1,500 per $1 USD, understanding the cost of living in Nigeria in US dollars is essential for expats and the diaspora.

Living Expenses in Nigeria: What Drives Costs?

The biggest contributors to living expenses in Nigeria include:

• Rent and housing

• Food and groceries

• Transportation and fuel

• Power, water, and private utilities

• Education and healthcare

Housing and food alone now account for more than half of most household budgets nationwide.

Average Rent in Nigeria (2026)

The average rent in Nigeria varies sharply by location and housing quality. While a luxury three-bedroom apartment in a prime urban district can exceed $15,000 annually, more modest housing remains available across the country.

National averages indicate:

• Standard 2-bedroom flat: ₦460,000 per month (approximately $305 USD)

Rent structures often require one to two years of advance payment, significantly increasing upfront living costs and making relocation planning essential.

Cost of Food in Nigeria

The cost of food in Nigeria has become the single largest expense for many households, now consuming 60 to 70 percent of total monthly income in some cases.

Typical food costs include:

• Monthly groceries for a family of four: ₦150,000 – ₦250,000 ($100 – $170 USD)

• Meal at a local buka: ₦1,200 – ₦2,500 ($0.80 – $1.70 USD)

• Mid-range restaurant meal: ₦8,000 – ₦15,000 ($5.50 – $10 USD)

Rising fuel costs, transportation expenses, and supply chain pressures continue to influence food pricing across the country.

Is Nigeria Still Affordable in 2026?

From a global perspective, the cost of living in Nigeria remains low. However, affordability now depends almost entirely on income source.

• For foreign earners, Nigeria offers strong purchasing power and lifestyle flexibility.

• For local earners, inflation-adjusted living costs have significantly reduced disposable income.

This growing gap is reshaping housing demand, consumption patterns, and migration decisions across major cities.

Nigeria, Lagos, and Abuja: What Comes Next

This national overview sets the foundation for understanding city-level costs. Lagos represents the high-cost opportunity center, while Abuja offers more predictable and structured living expenses.

In the next articles:

• Cost of Living in Lagos, Nigeria explores rent pressure, transportation costs, and lifestyle trade-offs.

• Cost of Living in Abuja, Nigeria examines housing stability, food pricing, and quality of life considerations.

Together, these guides provide a complete picture of living expenses in Nigeria in 2026.