In 2025, the cost of living in Nigeria varies greatly between cities, with some urban areas being much more expensive than others. This difference in living costs is due to factors like business activity, demand for housing, available services, and local resources. Some of Nigeria’s most expensive cities are major centers for business, politics, and industry, where the high demand for goods and housing has led to rising costs.

Here are five most expensive cities to live in Nigeria in 2025:

1. Lagos

Lagos is the most expensive city in Nigeria in 2025. As the country’s business and economic hub, it attracts many businesses, which drives up the demand for housing and services. This has made living in Lagos costly, with high rent prices. Known for its busy city center and wealthy neighborhoods like Ikoyi and Victoria Island, Lagos also has expensive food, transportation, and other daily costs. With a Rent Index of 24.30, Lagos is even the most expensive rental city in Africa.

2. Abuja

Abuja, Nigeria’s capital city, is another high-cost city in 2025. Being the political heart of the country, it draws government officials, international workers, and business professionals, all contributing to the city’s high living costs. Expensive areas like Maitama, Asokoro, and Wuse are filled with luxury homes, and the prices for goods, services, and transportation remain high, making Abuja a costly place to live.

3. Port Harcourt

Port Harcourt, the oil capital of Nigeria, ranks among the most expensive cities to live in 2025. The city’s strong oil industry brings in workers and businesses from all over, which increases demand for housing and services. Popular areas like the Government Reserved Area (GRA) are known for their expensive properties. Along with high rent, costs for goods, transportation, and other services are also elevated due to the city’s economic growth.

4. Enugu

Enugu, known as the “Coal City,” has become more expensive in recent years. The city is growing as a commercial center, with more people moving in for work and business opportunities. This has driven up housing costs, especially in the city’s more popular areas. As Enugu continues to develop with more businesses and infrastructure, living expenses, including food, transportation, and utilities, have also increased.

5. Owerri

Owerri, the capital of Imo State, has seen a rise in living costs in 2025. The city’s growing economy, especially in real estate and services, has led to higher property prices and rent. Areas like Nekede, New Owerri, and World Bank Road are becoming expensive as demand for housing increases. Prices for goods and transportation have also gone up, making Owerri one of the most expensive cities in Nigeria.