LagosvsNairobi
Overall
💰+12.5%
Lagos is 12.5%more expensive
Rent
🏠-16.7%
Housing is 16.7% lower
Dining
🍽️+14.3%
Restaurants 14.3% pricier
Groceries
🛒+6.7%
Food shopping 6.7% more
Comparing the cost of living between Lagos, Nigeria and Nairobi, Kenya reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2025. Our comprehensive analysis shows that Lagos is more expensive than Nairobi 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 higher than in Nairobi by 20%. A one-bedroom apartment in Lagos's city center costs around NGN 800,000, while the same in Nairobi is approximately KES 50,000.
Dining out in Lagos offers significant savings compared to Nairobi. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs NGN 3,000 in Lagos versus KES 500 in Nairobi.
Public transportation in Lagos is more expensive, with monthly passes at NGN 20,000 compared to KES 4,000 in Nairobi.
Purchasing power in Nairobi is notably stronger, meaning residents can afford more goods and services with their local salaries compared to Lagos.
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 Nairobi, the same lifestyle would cost around KES 29,480. For families, these figures increase significantly, with a family of four requiring about NGN 611,100 monthly in Lagos versus KES 103,180 in Nairobi. 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 Nairobi, 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 Nairobi 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
Nairobi
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Lagos more expensive than Nairobi?
Yes, Lagos is approximately 12.5% more expensive than Nairobi overall. The biggest differences are in housing and restaurant prices.
How much salary do I need in Lagos compared to Nairobi?
To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 1.1x of your Nairobi salary when living in Lagos. For example, if you earn $50,000 in Nairobi, you'd need about $56,250 in Lagos for a comparable lifestyle.
What are the biggest cost differences between Lagos and Nairobi?
The most significant cost difference is in housing. Rent prices differ by approximately 20%, 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?
Nairobi offers better purchasing power, making it more attractive for those earning in strong currencies. However, Nairobi provides lower living costs, which benefits budget-conscious travelers. Consider Lagos if you prioritize cultural experiences, or Nairobi for better value.
What's a reasonable monthly budget for Lagos vs Nairobi?
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 Nairobi, these figures are KES 54,480 for singles and KES 173,180 for families. These estimates include housing, food, transportation, and basic entertainment.
The cost of living comparison between Lagos and Nairobi 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 Nairobi to maintain your lifestyle from Lagos
Calculate Salary Equivalence