Living in Abuja or any major city in Nigeria has become increasingly demanding. For a family of three, maintaining a decent standard of living in today’s economy requires careful financial planning, and the income needed to cover basic expenses is substantial. Here’s a breakdown of monthly costs that a typical family in Abuja might face, along with some personal reflections and advice on how families can navigate these economic pressures.

1. Housing Costs

Renting a two-bedroom apartment in moderately priced areas like Lugbe or Gwarinpa costs about 2.5 million naira annually. That’s about 208,000 naira per month, a considerable expense for most families. In central parts of Abuja, rents are often double this amount or more, especially in places like Maitama or Asokoro.
2. Utilities: Water, Gas, and Electricity

Utilities now range between 40,000 and 60,000 naira per month, depending on the level of usage and the reliability of power. Frequent power cuts lead many families to rely on generators, which only adds to monthly electricity costs due to the fuel needed to run them.
3. Food and Groceries

Food costs have skyrocketed. A loaf of bread, for instance, now costs 1,500 to 2,800 naira. For a family of three, groceries including staples like rice, beans, vegetables, and poultry could easily reach 120,000 to 180,000 naira per month, especially with additional expenses for milk, baby food, or other specialized items for children.
4. Transportation and Fuel

With petrol prices between 1,090 and 1,150 naira per liter, fueling two cars can add up quickly. For example, if each car consumes about 60 liters a week, that’s over 280,000 naira per month just on fuel. Add maintenance, insurance, and occasional repairs, and the total monthly transportation cost can reach 300,000 naira or more.
5. Internet and Other Essentials

A steady internet connection, which is essential for most families, costs around 15,000 to 25,000 naira per month. Other essentials, like household cleaning supplies, school fees for the child, and basic healthcare, could add an extra 50,000 to 80,000 naira.

Monthly Budget Summary


Rent 208,000
Utilities 40,000 - 60,000
Food and Groceries 120,000 - 180,000
Fuel and Transport 300,000
Internet and Essentials 60,000 - 80,000
Total 728,000 - 828,000


For a family of three, this means they would need about 750,000 to 850,000 naira per month just to cover basic living expenses in Abuja. Factoring in any additional unexpected costs, a monthly income of around 1 million naira would be necessary to live comfortably and cover emergencies.

How Families Can Navigate High Living Costs

1. Pooling Resources: In many Nigerian households, both the husband and wife work to support the family. With rising costs, it’s increasingly important for both partners to contribute financially. This isn’t just practical; it’s often essential for meeting monthly expenses.
2. Budgeting and Prioritizing: Careful budgeting can make a big difference. Setting priorities, such as food, rent, and essential services, helps families avoid unnecessary expenses.
3. Exploring Side Gigs or Additional Income: Many families have turned to side businesses to supplement their primary income. This could range from freelance work, online sales, or even small-scale trading. With the economic situation, having multiple income streams is more of a necessity than a luxury.
4. Cutting Down on Transportation Costs: For some, relying on one car instead of two or using public transport when feasible can cut down monthly expenses. Although the public transport system in Abuja has limitations, reducing the frequency of car usage can save on fuel.
5. Community and Family Support: In tough times, community and family support systems are invaluable. Sharing resources, buying in bulk with neighbors, or even carpooling can help spread the costs around.


Nigeria’s economic reality requires a different approach to family finances. The rising cost of living means that families are constantly adjusting and finding creative ways to manage. It’s not easy, and many Nigerians feel the weight of these costs deeply. However, by staying flexible and working together as a team, families can still find ways to make it work.
In conclusion, for a typical family of three to survive comfortably in Abuja, an income of at least 1 million naira monthly is ideal. Anything less, and many families may find themselves needing to cut back significantly, even on essentials.