The 5 Cheapest Places to Reside in Abuja

Because Abuja is the capital city of Nigeria, it has been perceived by many to be a very expensive place to live in. The city replaced Lagos as the capital of Nigeria on December 12, 1991 in order to create a more central location that could foster unity among Nigeria’s diverse ethnic groups. As a result, the city has experienced a rapid population growth.

Even though many people think living in Abuja can be quite expensive, there are several affordable neighborhoods that offer great living conditions without breaking the bank. In this content, we will explore the five cheapest places that you can reside in Abuja.

1. Kubwa

Kubwa is often hailed as one of the most affordable areas in Abuja. It is located about 30 minutes from the Central Business District. It also offers a blend of residential appeal and accessibility. The community is family-friendly, with various amenities including schools, markets, and recreational facilities.

The area is particularly occupied by the middle class comprising of young professionals, civil servants, businessmen, and women, commercial motorcycle riders, artisans, and entrepreneurs. Also, Kubwa has a close proximity to major roads like the Murtala Muhammed Expressway.

2. Lugbe

Lugbe is another excellent choice for budget-conscious individuals. It is situated along the Abuja-Kaduna Expressway and boasts easy access to the city center. Housing options range from modest flats to larger homes, with prices that cater to various budgets.

The neighborhood is well-equipped with supermarkets, healthcare facilities, and schools. Lugbe is seated in the Abuja Municipal Area Council (AMAC). What’s great about Lugbe is that it’s just a quick 17-minute drive from the Central Business District and only about 13 minutes from the Abuja Airport.

Furthermore, this neighborhood is divided into five districts: Lugbe South, Lugbe North, Lugbe Central, Lugbe West, and Lugbe East. This division not only adds to its charm but also makes it easy for working-class folks to find a place that suits their lifestyle. The accessibility and the sense of community here make Lugbe a popular choice for many residents looking for a balance between affordability and convenience.

3. Karu

Karu is a popular district located just outside Abuja. Karu is an exciting urban area that sits right on the border between Nasarawa and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). It’s located in central Nigeria and is home to an estimated 2 million people. Another impressive fact is that Karu is one of the fastest-growing urban areas in the world, with a staggering growth rate of about 40 percent each year.

It offers both New Karu and Old Karu as options for residents. This area is known for its affordability and accessibility to public transport. Also, rental prices are significantly lower than those in central Abuja and you can find comfortable living spaces here at competitive rates.

Karu has a lively community atmosphere with local markets and essential services readily available. In order words, if you’re looking for a place to live, you’ll find that renting a flat in Karu is relatively affordable compared to other parts of Abuja. Plus, transportation to other parts of the city is budget-friendly, thereby making it accessible for the average Nigerian.

4. Kuje

Kuje is a busy market town that’s full of life and energy. It’s the kind of place where you can find all sorts of roadside shops selling everything from pharmaceuticals and groceries to building materials and phone cards. If you’re looking for music CDs or tools, you’ll find those here too.

One of the standout features of Kuje is its vibrant market that takes place every four days. During the market days, you’ll see numerous colourful stalls brimming with fresh fruits, vegetables, and meat, along with household goods, fabrics, shoes, and clothing. You might even spot some quirky posters featuring European footballers alongside their lavish homes, cars, and families.

Furthermore, Kuje is also experiencing rapid growth in housing developments, thanks to its close proximity to Abuja. This makes it an attractive option for those looking to settle down without being too far from the capital. With new homes popping up all over, Kuje is transforming into a great place to live.

5. Mpape

If you’re looking for affordability coupled with a sense of community, then Mpape should be on your radar. This rapidly developing area offers some of the lowest housing costs in Abuja. Mpape is a hilly area that sits right across from Maitama, just on the other side of the expressway that connects Asokoro and Kubwa. It falls under the Bwari Area Council, which helps manage the local community.

If you head south from Mpape, you’ll find areas referred to as Maitama 2 or Maitama Extension, giving you a sense of how close it is to one of Abuja’s most prestigious neighborhoods. With its unique topography and strategic location, Mpape is definitely a place to live in.

From small apartments to larger homes, Mpape caters to various needs and budgets. The neighborhood’s friendly atmosphere and ongoing development projects make it an exciting place to consider for your next move.

Conclusion

Choosing where to live in Abuja doesn’t have to be a burden or cause you financial stress. Any of the places highlighted above offers affordable housing solutions without sacrificing quality of life or accessibility. You’ll definitely find a place that suits your needs perfectly. Whether you’re a young professional starting your journey or a family seeking comfort on a budget, these neighborhoods provide excellent opportunities to enjoy all that the city of Abuja has to offer.