Top 10 most affordable states to live in Nigeria in 2026

2026-02-18 - 12:06

By Enitan Abdultawab As the cost of living continues to shape household decisions across Nigeria, where you live can make a major difference in how far your income stretches. One of the key ways affordability is measured is through headline inflation. In this ranking by the National Bureau of Statistics, headline inflation refers to the overall increase in prices of goods and services in an economy — including food, transport, housing, clothing, healthcare, and other everyday expenses. It captures the total cost pressure consumers face. Alongside this is food inflation, which specifically measures how much food prices are rising — an especially important figure in Nigeria, where food accounts for a large portion of household spending. States with lower headline and food inflation rates generally experience slower price increases, making them relatively more affordable places to live. Based on the latest subnational inflation data for early 2026, here are the top 10 most affordable states in Nigeria: 10. Gombe State – Headline Inflation: 13.74%, Food Inflation: 8.8% While not among the absolute lowest in terms of price increases, Gombe’s inflation numbers remain lower than in many other states, particularly in the northern and southern parts of the country. Slower growth in food costs and essential items such as transport and household goods means that families in Gombe are somewhat shielded from the most severe cost pressures felt elsewhere. 9. Delta State – Headline Inflation: 13.58%, Food Inflation: 6.6% Delta State’s placement on the list reflects its relatively stable price environment. Although it lies in a region with significant commercial activity, the cost of living has not escalated as rapidly as in many other southern states. Food prices in particular are growing moderately, lowering the burden on household budgets. 8. Ondo State – Headline Inflation: 13.20%, Food Inflation: 5.5% Ondo continues to stand out for maintaining lower inflationary pressures compared to its neighbours. Food costs have risen more slowly here, which is significant because food constitutes a large share of monthly spending for most households. Combined with reasonably affordable services and utilities, Ondo’s inflation profile makes it a comfortable choice for families, retirees, and young professionals looking to keep living costs down without relocating far from major economic centres. 7. Ogun State – Headline Inflation: 12.86%, Food Inflation: 7.9% Though Ogun State borders the bustling Lagos economy, it has managed to contain inflation relatively well. The cost of essentials — including food, transport, and basic household goods — is rising at a modest pace, easing some financial burden for residents. Its proximity to major economic hubs, combined with slightly softer price increases, makes Ogun a viable and affordable option for commuters and families who want access to urban opportunities without the highest urban costs. 6. Abia State – Headline Inflation: 11.67%, Food Inflation: 3.2% Abia’s most notable feature is its exceptionally low food inflation, which stands out compared to most other states on this list. Given that food accounts for a large portion of household spending, slower rises in food prices can directly reduce the cost of living. 5. Kaduna State – Headline Inflation: 11.41%, Food Inflation: 5.1% Kaduna State earns its place with a balanced inflation profile where both food and non-food prices are growing more slowly than in many parts of the country. This means essentials like groceries, transport, and everyday services haven’t become prohibitively expensive. For families and individuals trying to manage limited budgets, this relative stability provides predictability and reduces the shock of sudden price jumps in essential goods. 4. Enugu State – Headline Inflation: 11.04%, Food Inflation: 5.8% In the southeastern region, Enugu stands out for its relatively controlled inflation rates. While price increases are still noticeable, they are milder compared to high-inflation states. Moderation of costs, especially in food items and basic services, means that households can cope better with changes in prices and plan spending more effectively. 3. Imo State – Headline Inflation: 10.61%, Food Inflation: 3.7% Imo State stretches its residents’ budgets further, mostly due to low food inflation, which significantly eases the cost of basic necessities. Since food accounts for a major share of most family budgets, slower increases in food prices help keep overall living costs down. Imo presents an attractive option for people looking to maintain a good quality of life without high living costs. 2. Katsina State – Headline Inflation: 8.94%, Food Inflation: 5.8% Katsina stands out as one of the least inflation-hit states in Nigeria, with total price increases significantly lower than the national average. While food prices have still risen, they have done so at a gentler pace, softening the impact on everyday expenses. 1. Ebonyi State – Headline Inflation: 8.72%, Food Inflation: 1.7% Topping the list, Ebonyi offers the most budget-friendly environment nationwide, largely because its food inflation is extremely low — far below that of most other states. Since food is the biggest recurring expense for most households, this unusually slow price growth helps reduce the financial strain on families. Vanguard News