LagosvsMexico City
Overall
💰+12.5%
Lagos is 12.5%more expensive
Rent
🏠+16.7%
Housing is 16.7% higher
Dining
🍽️+14.3%
Restaurants 14.3% pricier
Groceries
🛒-11.1%
Food shopping 11.1% less
Comparing the cost of living between Lagos, Nigeria and Mexico City, Mexico reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2025. Our comprehensive analysis shows that Lagos is more expensive than Mexico City by approximately 12.5%. 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 Lagos are lower than in Mexico City by 14%. A one-bedroom apartment in Lagos's city center costs around NGN 800,000, while the same in Mexico City is approximately MX$15,000.
Dining out in Lagos offers significant savings compared to Mexico City. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs NGN 3,000 in Lagos versus MX$100 in Mexico City.
Public transportation in Lagos is more expensive, with monthly passes at NGN 20,000 compared to MX$500 in Mexico City.
Purchasing power in Mexico City is notably stronger, meaning residents can afford more goods and services with their local salaries compared to Lagos.
Grocery shopping in Lagos is more expensive by approximately 13%. Basic items like milk, bread, and eggs show higher prices across the board.
Monthly Budget Breakdown
When breaking down monthly expenses, a single person in Lagos can expect to spend approximately NGN 174,600 per month (excluding rent), while in Mexico City, the same lifestyle would cost around MX$5,050. For families, these figures increase significantly, with a family of four requiring about NGN 611,100 monthly in Lagos versus MX$17,675 in Mexico City. 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 Lagos to Mexico City, 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 Mexico City to Lagos 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
Lagos
Mexico City
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Lagos more expensive than Mexico City?
Yes, Lagos is approximately 12.5% more expensive than Mexico City overall. The biggest differences are in housing and restaurant prices.
How much salary do I need in Lagos compared to Mexico City?
To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 1.1x of your Mexico City salary when living in Lagos. For example, if you earn $50,000 in Mexico City, you'd need about $56,250 in Lagos for a comparable lifestyle.
What are the biggest cost differences between Lagos and Mexico City?
The most significant cost difference is in housing. Rent prices differ by approximately 14%, 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?
Mexico City offers better purchasing power, making it more attractive for those earning in strong currencies. However, Mexico City provides lower living costs, which benefits budget-conscious travelers. Consider Lagos if you prioritize cultural experiences, or Mexico City for better value.
What's a reasonable monthly budget for Lagos vs Mexico City?
In Lagos, a single person needs approximately NGN 574,600 per month (including rent), while a family of four requires about NGN 1,611,100. In Mexico City, these figures are MX$13,050 for singles and MX$35,675 for families. These estimates include housing, food, transportation, and basic entertainment.
The cost of living comparison between Lagos and Mexico City 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 Mexico City to maintain your lifestyle from Lagos
Calculate Salary Equivalence