When looking at the Abuja real estate market, one cannot help but note the beauty that distinguishes this Nigerian city. With high living costs and a lifestyle that caters to both the rich and different socioeconomic classes, Abuja should be on your list if you’re thinking about investing in real estate.
Abuja’s is 2nd most expensive city in Nigeria next to Lagos. This is driven by various factors,which includes the difficulty in accessing land due to land grabbing by the elite, a rigorous master plan, and the significant contrast between money in circulation and the limited goods available. This city is primarily run by the government, which results in a high cost of living. Let’s take a look at the best places to live in Abuja, considering living costs, including rent and basic consumables.
Best places to Live in Abuja
Asokoro
Asokoro should be top on your list if exclusivity and a high-brow status are your thing. But, be prepared to dig deep into your pockets.Average rent for a 3 bedroom flat in Asokoro is N19.4 million according to nairametrics. The main reason Asokoro tops the list is due to its proximity to Aso Rock. Security in this district is unmatched, with obvious presence of security agents at every corner. Notable government offices, such as the Economic Community Of West African States (ECOWAS), World Health organization (WHO) and the National Intelligence Agency are also located in Asokoro.
Maitama
Unlike the early 1990s when Maitama was more accessible to ordinary Nigerians, today, it’s a playground for the elite and also one of the best places to live in Abuja.Maitama is home to diplomats, senators, ministers, government officials, high ranking clergy men and contractors of significant stature. Renting a 3-bedroom flat in Maitama starts at N5 million annually while a 4 bedroom duplex starts at N15 million. If you can afford to spend that on rent and six figures monthly on groceries at any of the supermarkets around the area, then consider Maitama your new home.
Apart from its high living costs, Maitama is home to government offices and commissions, including The Dome, Independent National Electoral Commission, Nigerian Communication Commission, and the British Council.
Wuse 2
Wuse 2 is where Abuja’s upscale restaurants and hospitality centers are located. Stores like Juice Place 2, Quarter Café, Woks and Koi, are located in the area. While it competes with Maitama in terms of living costs, Wuse 2 is more commercially oriented, and has fewer residents who perfectly represent the difference between high-class life and the rest.If extravagance is your style, Wuse district will enchant you with its atmosphere and luxury establishments. With proximity to places like Sheraton hotel, Wuse market, Ferma, Emab plaza, and Silverbird cinema, it’s a vibrant hub of commerce and entertainment. However, it comes at a price, average price of houses for rent in Wuse is ₦5 million anually.
Garki 2
Garki 2, while not as expensive as Wuse 2 or Maitama, is still a costly option compared to other areas in Abuja. Garki 2 makes it to best Places to Live in Abuja list because the area has some of the city’s exclusive supermarkets and shopping malls. Rent for a 2-bedroom flat here can range from 1.5 million to 2.5 million naira annually, depending on the specific area. Garki 2 also houses many organizations like the Central Bank of Nigeria, the central post office, the Abuja international conference center, the army headquarters, and the air force headquarters.
Gwarinpa
Gwarinpa, popularly known as the largest housing estate in West Africa, it caters to the upper-middle class seeking an alternative to Maitama or Wuse 2. While it may not be as extravagant as Maitama or Asokoro, it is by no means an affordable option. Renting a 2-bedroom apartment here costs around 1.5 million – 2.5 million naira, making it relatively more accessible for residents of Abuja.
What makes Gwarinpa attractive to most people is its ability to accommodate various socioeconomic class within the upper and middle class. Its closeness to the city center and Abuja airport, coupled with the presence of essential amenities like banks and eateries, has elevated it into a sought-after location. There are also several real estate investment opportunities in the area. Many people find Gwarinpa to be one of the best places to live in Abuja since it provides a taste of luxury without breaking the bank.
Jabi
Jabi is another residential area that is popular among the mid -to-high income class in the city. Its main attraction lies in its well-maintained road network, tree lined streets, organized residential areas, proximity to Utako market for affordable foodstuff and most importantly the Lake. Jabi Lake is by far the most important attraction in the area, along with others like Jabi Gardens, the largest Interstate bus park in Abuja called Jabi Garage/Park which provides easy access to other states in the country.This area also has mice schools, shopping plazas, banks, restaurants, hotels, and entertainment centers The housing market in Jabi is characterized by high prices, ranging from five to a ranging from fifty to a hundred million naira to buy a home in Jabi. If you seek a calm and peaceful environment with a touch of luxury, Jabi might be the ideal district for you.
If these areas seem out of range for your pocket , check out the most afforable places to live in Abuja