CairovsLagos
Overall
💰+14.3%
Cairo is 14.3%more expensive
Rent
🏠+100.0%
Housing is 100.0% higher
Dining
🍽️+16.7%
Restaurants 16.7% pricier
Groceries
🛒+40.6%
Food shopping 40.6% more
Comparing the cost of living between Cairo, Egypt and Lagos, Nigeria reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2025. Our comprehensive analysis shows that Cairo is more expensive than Lagos by approximately 14.3%. This comparison covers essential living expenses including housing, food, transportation, and utilities, providing you with a complete picture of what to expect financially in each city.
Key Cost Differences
Housing costs in Cairo are lower than in Lagos by 50%. A one-bedroom apartment in Cairo's city center costs around EGP 10,000, while the same in Lagos is approximately NGN 800,000.
Dining out in Cairo offers significant savings compared to Lagos. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs EGP 150 in Cairo versus NGN 3,000 in Lagos.
Public transportation in Cairo is more affordable, with monthly passes at EGP 200 compared to NGN 20,000 in Lagos.
Grocery shopping in Cairo is more affordable by approximately 29%. Basic items like milk, bread, and eggs show lower prices across the board.
Monthly Budget Breakdown
When breaking down monthly expenses, a single person in Cairo can expect to spend approximately EGP 4,980 per month (excluding rent), while in Lagos, the same lifestyle would cost around NGN 174,600. For families, these figures increase significantly, with a family of four requiring about EGP 17,430 monthly in Cairo versus NGN 611,100 in Lagos. These estimates include groceries, dining out, transportation, utilities, and entertainment, providing a realistic picture of day-to-day living costs in each city.
Detailed Cost Comparison
🏠 Housing Costs (Monthly Rent)
🍽️ Food & Dining
🛒 Groceries
🚌 Transportation
💡 Utilities & Internet
Tips for Moving Between Cities
For those considering a move from Cairo to Lagos, the cost savings can be substantial, particularly in housing and daily expenses. However, it's important to factor in salary differences and job opportunities. Conversely, moving from Lagos to Cairo requires careful financial planning. Consider negotiating salary adjustments that reflect the higher cost of living, and research neighborhoods outside the city center for more affordable housing options while maintaining reasonable commute times.
Quality of Life Indices
Cairo
Lagos
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Cairo more expensive than Lagos?
Yes, Cairo is approximately 14.3% more expensive than Lagos overall. The biggest differences are in housing and restaurant prices.
How much salary do I need in Cairo compared to Lagos?
To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 1.1x of your Lagos salary when living in Cairo. For example, if you earn $50,000 in Lagos, you'd need about $57,143 in Cairo for a comparable lifestyle.
What are the biggest cost differences between Cairo and Lagos?
The most significant cost difference is in housing. Rent prices differ by approximately 50%, making it a major factor in your budget planning. Transportation and utilities show notable variations between the two cities.
Which city is better for expats and digital nomads?
Cairo offers better purchasing power, making it more attractive for those earning in strong currencies. However, Lagos provides lower living costs, which benefits budget-conscious travelers. Consider Cairo if you prioritize earning potential, or Lagos for affordability.
What's a reasonable monthly budget for Cairo vs Lagos?
In Cairo, a single person needs approximately EGP 10,980 per month (including rent), while a family of four requires about EGP 29,430. In Lagos, these figures are NGN 574,600 for singles and NGN 1,611,100 for families. These estimates include housing, food, transportation, and basic entertainment.
The cost of living comparison between Cairo and Lagos in 2025 shows notable differences across various expense categories. Whether you're planning a relocation for work, considering retirement options, or simply curious about living costs, understanding these differences is crucial for making informed financial decisions.
Need to calculate salary equivalence?
Find out how much you need to earn in Lagos to maintain your lifestyle from Cairo
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