When you think of the most expensive state to live in Nigeria, names like Lagos, Rivers and Ekiti will surely come to mind.
Data is always interesting and reliable statistics bureau have showed that Bauchi, Kebbi and Sokoto are the top 3 most expensive states to live in Nigeria.
This is according to National Bureau of Statistics, NBS consumer price index and inflation data for October 2024, released on Friday. This is surely a reliable source and they do not use hearsay but facts to come up with their data
Top 10 most expensive states in Nigeria 2024
Food and petrol price hikes by President Tinubu has pushed Nigeria’s inflation to 33.88 percent in October 2024. This has met that all round, life is more expensive across Nigeria.
According to the data, Bauchi State recorded the highest year-on-year inflation rate of 46.68 percent in October 2024. This was followed by Kebbi (40.02 percent) and Sokoto (39.65 percent).
On the slip side, Delta (27.85 percent), Benue (28.22 percent), and Katsina (29.59 percent) recorded the lowest rise in headline inflation on a year-on-year basis.
In the aspect of food inflation, in October 2024 it was highest in Sokoto (52.18 percent), Edo (46.55 percent), Borno (45.85 percent), while Kwara (31.68 percent), Kogi (33.30 percent), and Rivers (33.87 percent) recorded the slowest rise in food inflation on a year-on-year basis.
Similarly, Nigeria’s food inflation increased to a record high of 39.16 percent during the period under review.
With a minimum wage of just N70,000 ($28), working class in Nigeria are further pushed into poverty line, and it remains to be seen what the future holds.
Top 10 Cheapest States to Live in Nigeria According to Recent NBS Data
Benue State: Often dubbed the “Food Basket of the Nation,” offers the lowest cost of living due to its agricultural prowess. With an inflation rate of 27.3%, it’s significantly below the national average. The abundance of foodstuffs like yams, rice, and vegetables keeps local food prices low.
Nasarawa State: Following closely is Nasarawa with a food inflation rate of 37.6% and a total inflation rate of 28.1%. The state benefits from lower housing costs and a relatively stable economy, making it an attractive place for those looking to stretch their naira.
Delta State: Despite being an oil-producing state, Delta has managed to keep living costs down. The affordability here is reflected in relatively low housing and transportation expenses, with food inflation at 38.3%.
Borno State: Despite security challenges, Borno’s agricultural base allows for lower food prices, contributing to its position as one of the cheapest states with a food inflation rate of 33.5% and an all-item inflation rate of 29.3%.
Katsina State: Katsina’s economic conditions make it one of the more affordable states in Nigeria. With food inflation at 38.3% and an all-item rate of 28.6%, it’s a haven for budget-conscious individuals.
Taraba State: With a food inflation rate of 39% and an all-item rate of 29.1%, provides an environment where living expenses are kept in check, primarily due to its agrarian economy.
Kano State: Known for both its industrial activities and agriculture, Kano maintains a balance that keeps costs manageable. The state’s inflation figures show a moderate rise, offering affordability.
Ondo State: The state’s resourcefulness in cocoa and other agricultural products contributes to its affordability, with an inflation rate that positions it as one of the cheaper states.
Ekiti State: Ekiti’s focus on education and agriculture helps in maintaining lower living costs compared to many other states in Nigeria.
Kogi State: Although Kogi has experienced fluctuations in its inflation rates, its strategic location between major economic hubs allows for some economic benefits, making it relatively cheap to live in.
