Cost of living in Abuja

Despite previous perceptions, the cost of living in Abuja for expats has significantly decreased, as evidenced by its latest ranking in Mercer’s 2024 Cost of Living Survey. Abuja now stands as the least expensive city among the surveyed expat destinations, ranked 226th out of 226 cities, a stark contrast to its earlier position at 140th. This drastic drop suggests a major shift in the city's cost dynamics compared to other global destinations.

This shift in ranking, precipitated by a weakened naira, may come as a surprise to many expats who previously found the cost of living in Abuja to be relatively high. Foreigners moving here should realise this is a developing country with a vast gulf between rich and poor, as well as between those earning in the local currency and those earning dollars or pounds. While many of its citizens live in poverty, a select few experience a very different lifestyle, utilising their wealth to fund international business ventures, unlimited shopping sprees and private education.

Cost of accommodation in Abuja

Despite the overall drop in the cost of living, expat accommodation in Abuja remains relatively expensive, typically requiring payment in annual lump sums rather than more manageable monthly instalments. Most rental contracts are still offered on a mandatory two-year lease basis.

While this can seem outrageous and unattainable, housing will be provided for many expat workers as part of their relocation package. Often, the accommodation will also include a security guard and a housekeeper. Expats who have only been allocated an accommodation allowance should make sure the amount promised is enough to secure appropriate housing in Abuja, as well as additional expenses, including generators and general repairs.

Cost of transport in Abuja

If moving to Nigeria for work and employed by a large company, expats are quite likely to be offered the transport services of a driver as part of their package.

Although this may sound excessive, it is necessary, especially to get anywhere on time and unharmed. Abuja’s roads are among the best in Nigeria – rickshaws and motorcycles (okadas) are partially banned, traffic wardens are plentiful, and the government has taken care to cover most of the potholes. Despite this, the main roads are chaotic, congested, and hazardous to the inexperienced foreign driver.

Cost of groceries in Abuja

The cost of Western food items in Nigeria is significantly inflated. Expats can expect to pay a decent chunk more for many standard Western groceries. That said, local produce is cheap. Nigeria has an excellent climate, so an array of fruits and vegetables are available all year round.

Clothes

As is the case with food, prices for Western clothes are high. Expats who want value for money should either select the material and have clothes made by a local tailor or buy second-hand from any of the clothing sellers in Abuja. For those who want to splurge, several modern malls have emerged in the city, where expats can find numerous international fashion brands.

Cost of entertainment and eating out in Abuja

Entertainment and dining out in Abuja encompass a wide price range but often lean towards the higher end for Western tastes, reflecting the city’s general cost of living. Although there are eateries and entertainment spots that cater to a more budget-conscious audience, the costs can escalate, especially in more upscale areas or establishments catering to expats and the city’s affluent crowd.

Cinemas are a popular choice for a night out, and the price for a pair of movie tickets is on par with what one might expect in other large cities. Several modern malls within the city also provide various entertainment options, though at a relatively high cost. The contrast in pricing between local and expatriate-oriented establishments is palpable, and expats should explore a mix of both to find a balance between cost and preference.

Cost of education in Abuja

Expats living in Abuja don't really consider public schools an option, given the low standards of educational facilities, so most expats send their children to an international school in Abuja or a boarding school back home. Within the city, the Lead British International School and the American International School are among the most sought-after schools for private education. Fees at these schools can be expensive, so expats should ensure that their salary package makes provision for this.

Cost of healthcare in Abuja

The healthcare landscape in Abuja presents a stark disparity between public and private facilities. The public healthcare system is notably underfunded and often falls below the standards many expats might be accustomed to. The preferred choice for expats is private clinics and hospitals, which offer a higher standard of care, albeit at a considerably higher cost than public healthcare facilities.

A peculiar practice is the upfront cash payment often required by healthcare providers, which could be substantial depending on the treatment needed. This necessitates robust insurance coverage, with many expatriates opting for international health insurance policies that cover a broad range of medical treatments and even medical evacuation when necessary.