NairobivsLagos
Overall
đź’°-11.1%
Nairobi is 11.1%cheaper
Rent
đźŹ+20.0%
Housing is 20.0% higher
Dining
🍽️-12.5%
Restaurants 12.5% cheaper
Groceries
đź›’-6.3%
Food shopping 6.3% less
Comparing the cost of living between Nairobi, Kenya and Lagos, Nigeria reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2025. Our comprehensive analysis shows that Nairobi is more affordable than Lagos by approximately 11.1%. 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 Nairobi are lower than in Lagos by 17%. A one-bedroom apartment in Nairobi's city center costs around KESÂ 50,000, while the same in Lagos is approximately NGNÂ 800,000.
Dining out in Nairobi is notably more expensive compared to Lagos. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs KESÂ 500 in Nairobi versus NGNÂ 3,000 in Lagos.
Public transportation in Nairobi is more affordable, with monthly passes at KESÂ 4,000 compared to NGNÂ 20,000 in Lagos.
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 Nairobi can expect to spend approximately KESÂ 29,480 per month (excluding rent), while in Lagos, the same lifestyle would cost around NGNÂ 174,600. For families, these figures increase significantly, with a family of four requiring about KESÂ 103,180 monthly in Nairobi versus NGNÂ 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
đź›’ Groceries
🚌 Transportation
đź’ˇ 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
Nairobi
Lagos
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Nairobi more expensive than Lagos?
No, Nairobi is approximately 11.1% cheaper than Lagos. You'll find significant savings in housing, food, and transportation costs.
How much salary do I need in Nairobi compared to Lagos?
To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 90% of your Lagos salary when living in Nairobi. For example, if you earn $50,000 in Lagos, you'd need about $45,000 in Nairobi for a comparable lifestyle.
What are the biggest cost differences between Nairobi and Lagos?
The most significant cost difference is in housing. Rent prices differ by approximately 17%, 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 Nairobi if you prioritize earning potential, or Lagos for affordability.
What's a reasonable monthly budget for Nairobi vs Lagos?
In Nairobi, a single person needs approximately KESÂ 54,480 per month (including rent), while a family of four requires about KESÂ 173,180. In Lagos, these figures are NGNÂ 574,600 for singles and NGNÂ 1,611,100 for families. These estimates include housing, food, transportation, and basic entertainment.
The cost of living comparison between Nairobi 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 Nairobi
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