The National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) has released its latest report on the cost of living in Nigeria, revealing the top 10 most expensive states to reside in as of July 2026. The report, which measures the average monthly expenditure per household, shows that Lagos State is the most expensive, with an average cost of ₦312,500.
Lagos Leads as the Most Expensive State
Lagos, Nigeria's commercial capital, tops the list with a monthly average of ₦312,500. This is followed by the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja, where residents spend an average of ₦285,000 per month. Rivers State ranks third with ₦270,000.
The NBS report attributes these high costs to factors such as housing, transportation, food, and energy prices. According to the NBS, 'The cost of living in these states is significantly influenced by urbanisation and the concentration of economic activities.'
Other States in the Top 10
Other states in the top 10 include Delta (₦255,000), Oyo (₦240,000), Kano (₦225,000), Anambra (₦210,000), Edo (₦200,000), Kaduna (₦195,000), and Ogun (₦190,000). These figures represent the average total monthly expenditure for a typical household, including rent, food, utilities, and transportation.
The report also highlights that the cost of living in these states is higher than the national average of ₦150,000 per month. The NBS noted that the gap between the most expensive and least expensive states is widening, with the cheapest state, Yobe, having an average monthly cost of ₦95,000.
Implications for Residents and Policy
These figures have significant implications for residents and policymakers. For residents in high-cost states, the burden of daily expenses is heavier, potentially affecting their savings and quality of life. For policymakers, the report provides data that can inform decisions on minimum wage adjustments, social welfare programs, and infrastructure development.
The NBS report is based on a survey of 10,000 households across the 36 states and the FCT, conducted between June and July 2026. It is part of the bureau's ongoing efforts to provide accurate and timely economic data to support national development.
