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Top 10 Expensive States to Live in Nigeria in May 2025

Top 10 Expensive States to Live in Nigeria in May 2025

Top 10 Most Expensive States to Live in Nigeria in May 2025 | Cost of Living Insights

Nigeria’s economic landscape in 2025 continues to face significant challenges, with inflation driving up the cost of living across the country. According to the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS), the headline inflation rate in May 2025 stood at approximately 23.7%, a slight decline from 24.2% in April 2025, reflecting a modest easing of price pressures.

However, the cost of living remains unevenly distributed, with certain states experiencing significantly higher inflation rates due to factors like food price surges, transportation costs, housing expenses, and regional economic disparities. Food inflation, though reduced to 21.3% year-on-year, continues to strain household budgets, particularly in urban centers. This article ranks the TOP 10 EXPENSIVE STATE in Nigeria for May 2025, based on the latest NBS Consumer Price Index (CPI) data, offering insights into the economic pressures shaping these regions.

Top 10 Most Expensive States to Live in Nigeria in May 2025

Below is a detailed ranking of the TOP 10 EXPENSIVE STATE in Nigeria as of May 2025, based on all-item inflation rates from the NBS, with insights into key drivers like food inflation, housing, and transportation costs.

1. Enugu – 36.0% Inflation Rate

Enugu tops the list as the most expensive state in Nigeria in May 2025, with a year-on-year inflation rate of 36.0%. Food inflation stands at 24.4%, with a monthly rise of 3.9%, driven by high costs in housing, energy, and transportation. Urban centers like Enugu City face intense price pressures, making it a challenging environment for residents.

2. Federal Capital Territory (FCT) – 32.9% Inflation Rate

The FCT, including Abuja, ranks second with a 32.9% annual inflation rate. Non-food items like housing and utilities are significant drivers, with food inflation at a relatively lower 15.9%. Monthly price increases of 10.7% reflect the high cost of living in Nigeria’s political capital, where real estate in areas like Maitama and Asokoro commands premium prices.

3. Delta – 31.9% Inflation Rate

Delta State records a 31.9% inflation rate, with food inflation at 15.9%. The state’s economic activity, particularly in oil-rich areas like Warri, contributes to high costs for housing and transportation. Monthly price surges of 10.7% for all items highlight the growing financial strain on residents.

4. Gombe – 31.0% Inflation Rate

Gombe rounds out the top four with a 31.0% year-on-year inflation rate. Food inflation at 26.4% remains a major driver, with a 5.8% monthly increase. Supply chain disruptions and agricultural challenges in the region exacerbate living costs.

5. Benue – 30.7% Inflation Rate

Benue’s inflation rate stands at 30.7%, with food inflation at 26.4%. Known as Nigeria’s “food basket,” the state faces high food prices due to insecurity affecting farming communities, alongside rising transport costs. Monthly price increases of 9.0% add to the economic burden.

6. Kebbi – 30.7% Inflation Rate

Kebbi matches Benue with a 30.7% inflation rate. Food inflation is slightly higher at 30.9%, with a dramatic 14.0% monthly surge. Logistic constraints and regional insecurity continue to drive up costs, making Kebbi one of the priciest states.

7. Osun – 30.4% Inflation Rate

Osun records a 30.4% inflation rate, with food inflation at 22.0%. Urban centers like Osogbo face rising costs for services, rent, and transportation, with a 16.5% monthly price increase across all items, signaling intense inflationary pressure.

8. Oyo – 30.0% Inflation Rate

Oyo, home to Ibadan, has a 30.0% inflation rate, with food inflation at a staggering 34.4%. The state’s high monthly food inflation (19.7%) reflects supply shortages and urban demand, making it increasingly expensive for residents.

9. Jigawa – 29.9% Inflation Rate

Jigawa’s inflation rate is 29.9%, with food inflation at 27.8%. A monthly price increase of 8.8% reflects rising transport costs and demand for seasonal staples, contributing to the state’s high cost of living.

10. Zamfara – 29.2% Inflation Rate

Zamfara closes the list with a 29.2% inflation rate. Food inflation at 25.4% and a 3.9% monthly price rise are driven by insecurity in rural farming zones and supply constraints, impacting affordability for residents.

Why Are These States So Expensive?

The TOP 10 EXPENSIVE STATE in Nigeria face unique economic challenges:

  • Food Inflation: States like Oyo and Kebbi see high food inflation due to supply chain disruptions, insecurity in agricultural zones, and rising transportation costs.
  • Urbanization: Urban centers in Enugu, FCT, and Oyo experience high demand for housing and services, driving up costs.
  • Regional Factors: Insecurity in states like Benue and Zamfara limits agricultural output, while oil-related economic activity in Delta increases living expenses.
  • Transportation Costs: Increased fuel prices and logistic constraints significantly impact states like Jigawa and Kebbi.

How to Navigate Nigeria’s High Cost of Living

Residents in the TOP 10 EXPENSIVE STATE can adopt strategies to manage costs:

  • Budget Wisely: Prioritize essential expenses like food and housing while cutting discretionary spending.
  • Explore Affordable Alternatives: Consider relocating to states with lower inflation rates, such as Ogun (9.9% food inflation) or Plateau, as noted in April 2025 NBS data.
  • Leverage Local Markets: Buying from local farmers’ markets can reduce food costs compared to urban supermarkets.
  • Advocate for Policy Changes: Support initiatives for improved agricultural security and infrastructure to stabilize prices.

Authoritative Sources for Further Reading

To dive deeper into Nigeria’s cost of living and inflation trends, consult these trusted sources:

Conclusion

The TOP 10 EXPENSIVE STATE in Nigeria for May 2025 highlight the ongoing economic challenges driven by inflation, particularly in food, housing, and transportation. Enugu leads as the priciest state, followed closely by the FCT and Delta, where urban demand and regional factors push costs higher. By understanding these trends and adopting practical strategies, Nigerians can better navigate the financial pressures of 2025. Stay informed with the latest NBS data and economic analyses to make informed decisions about living in these high-cost states.

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