5 Affordable Places to Live in Lagos

Lagos is a very busy city, and it is the most populous in Nigeria. This city is famous for its high cost of living due to its high economic activities. It is also widely believed that living in Lagos is very expensive. However, hidden within the city of Lagos are budget-friendly places where you can live comfortably without emptying your pockets. In this guide, you’ll learn five of the cheapest places to live in Lagos that offer not just affordability but also convenience and accessibility.

1. Ikorodu

Ikorodu is one of the fastest-growing suburbs in the city of Lagos. It is located in the northeastern part of Lagos and offers low housing costs compared to central Lagos. Housing options here range from single-room apartments to multi-bedroom flats, with rental prices for a one-bedroom starting as low as ₦100,000 to ₦250,000 annually. The rental prices depend on the specific area and property condition.

Compared to central Lagos neighborhoods like Victoria Island or Lekki, Ikorodu offers a much more economical cost of living. This makes the place ideal for families and young professionals.

Also, Ikorodu has seen significant developments, including better roads, new estates, and shopping centers like Ikorodu Mall, which houses a range of retail outlets and entertainment options.

The area is well-connected via road and water transport. For commuters, the Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system provides an efficient way to reach key destinations like Lagos Island or Ikeja. Additionally, ferries are available for a quicker route to Lagos’ business districts.

Ikorodu has thriving markets like Sabo Market, healthcare facilities, and schools, ensuring residents have everything they need within reach. Residents in this place can also enjoy various cultural and traditional events such as the Eyo Festival and the Ikorodu Oga Day celebration.

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2. Agege

This is another bustling suburb in Lagos State with a dynamic blend of affordability and urban vibrancy. This makes it a popular choice for budget-conscious individuals and families. The cost of living in Agege is relatively low, with rental prices for a one-bedroom apartment ranging from ₦150,000 to ₦200,000 annually.

This makes it a practical option for young professionals, students, and small families seeking proximity to Lagos’ commercial and administrative hubs. Agege is well connected to important areas like Ikeja, Ogba, and the Lagos Mainland. Its strategic location ensures ease of commute for professionals working in these regions, with access to major roads and transport hubs.

Pen Cinema is a popular spot in Agege and is a commercial hotspot that caters to the diverse shopping needs of residents. The area is also home to several schools, healthcare centers, and recreational facilities. The area has an efficient transportation system and has close proximity to the Lagos-Abeokuta Expressway.

3. Bariga

Bariga is a vibrant and affordable neighborhood located near Yaba on Lagos Mainland. Its affordability makes it an attractive option for students, young professionals, and families seeking proximity to Lagos’ commercial and educational hubs without the high cost of living.

Bariga’s proximity to Yaba provides easy access to key areas like Lagos Island, Surulere, and Ikeja. The neighborhood is well-served by public transportation, making it convenient for daily commuting. Its strategic location also positions it close to one of Nigeria’s major educational institutions, the University of Lagos (UNILAG), Akoka.

Housing options in Bariga are relatively affordable, with rents for one-bedroom apartments starting at about ₦150,000 annually. This affordability extends to everyday living expenses, including groceries and services, making it a practical choice for low-to-middle-income earners.

Also, the neighborhood boasts a strong sense of community with markets, local shops, and recreational facilities that cater to residents’ daily needs. While Bariga may not have the polish of more upscale areas, its blend of affordability and urban energy makes it a dynamic place to live.

4. Festac

Festac Town is situated in the Amuwo Odofin Local Government Area of Lagos State. It is one of the most affordable and well-connected residential neighborhoods in Lagos.

Initially, this place was established in 1977 for participants of the World Festival of Black Arts and Culture (FESTAC). The area was designed with a focus on creating a well-planned community, making it an attractive option for those seeking affordable housing without sacrificing comfort or accessibility.

Rent prices in Festac Town are considerably lower than those in more central areas of Lagos. This makes it an appealing choice for young professionals, students, and families. With a range of affordable housing options, including both residential and commercial properties, Festac Town offers flexibility for renters and potential homeowners. It is especially popular among individuals looking for budget-friendly living spaces in a peaceful, family-oriented neighborhood.

Festac Town is strategically located with excellent road networks that make commuting to other parts of Lagos relatively easy. Its close proximity to major commercial hubs such as Amuwo Odofin, Mile 2, and Badagry Road ensures residents have quick access to shopping centers, markets, and workspaces. Public transportation is widely available, with options such as buses, taxis, and Okadas making it convenient for those who rely on public transport.

Festac Town stands out for its diverse range of social amenities that add value to everyday living. The community features supermarkets, hospitals, schools, and recreational centers, providing residents with the necessary services and leisure activities close to home. Parks and green spaces are also abundant to offer a place of relaxation for residents. Banks and ATMs are scattered across the area for easy financial transactions.

5. Badagry

Badagry is located on the western edge of Lagos State. It offers a peaceful and affordable alternative to the hustle and bustle of central Lagos. Its affordability is one of the major draws, with single-room apartments costing as little as ₦100,000 annually.

Also, Badagry is historically significant as one of the major slave trade routes in Nigeria. It also has a slave museum that is a prominent tourist site. The local markets in Badagry offer fresh produce and other essentials at lower prices compared to other parts of Lagos. The area is also less crowded, providing residents with more space and privacy.

In addition, Badagry’s coastal landscape provides access to beaches, including the well-known Badagry Beach, which is ideal for relaxation and outdoor activities.

Conclusion

Living in Lagos doesn’t always mean high expenses like many people assume. With neighborhoods like Ikorodu, Agege, Bariga, Festac, and Badagry, you can enjoy affordable housing without sacrificing comfort. Each area also has features and trade-offs that are peculiar to them.

If you’re looking for a very affordable place to live in Lagos, you can settle in one of these places.