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• Muna Tengi
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Cost Of Living In Nasarawa State

Introduction

Nasarawa State, known as the "Home of Solid Minerals," is located in the North-Central region of Nigeria. Created in 1996 from the old Plateau State, Nasarawa has grown to become an attractive place for both residents and investors due to its strategic location, rich natural resources, and a relatively calm atmosphere. The state capital, Lafia, along with other towns like Keffi, Akwanga, and Karu, serve as major economic hubs with vibrant communities and growing business activities.

Nasarawa’s proximity to the Federal Capital Territory (Abuja) makes it an appealing option for those seeking a quieter lifestyle without sacrificing access to the opportunities of a major city. With a landscape of rolling hills, fertile farmlands, and developing urban areas, Nasarawa offers a mix of rural charm and urban convenience. However, the cost of living can vary depending on factors such as location, lifestyle, and personal needs.

This blog post provides an in-depth analysis of the cost of living in Nasarawa State, covering essential expenses such as housing, food, transportation, healthcare, education, and other everyday costs. Whether you are planning to move to Nasarawa, start a business, or are simply curious about life in this growing state, this guide will give you valuable insights into what it costs to live comfortably in Nasarawa.

Housing Costs

Housing is one of the most significant expenses for residents in Nasarawa State, and costs can vary widely based on location, type of accommodation, and proximity to urban centers like Lafia and Keffi.

1. Renting an Apartment:

   • In Lafia, the state capital, renting a one-bedroom apartment in the city center typically costs between ₦150,000 and ₦300,000 per year. More upscale neighborhoods and areas close to government offices or educational institutions might have slightly higher rents.
   • In suburban and less developed areas, such as Akwanga or Keffi, a one-bedroom apartment can be rented for between ₦100,000 and ₦200,000 per year. These areas offer a more affordable alternative while still being reasonably accessible to urban amenities.
   • For larger families, renting a three-bedroom apartment in Lafia costs between ₦300,000 and ₦800,000 per year, depending on the property’s location, amenities, and condition. Outside the capital, similar apartments can be found for ₦250,000 to ₦500,000 annually.

2. Buying a House:

   • Buying property in Nasarawa is relatively affordable compared to other states close to Abuja. A standard three-bedroom house in Lafia can cost between ₦10 million and ₦25 million, depending on location, size, and construction quality.
   • In smaller towns and rural areas, property prices are significantly lower, with similar houses available for ₦5 million to ₦15 million. These locations are attractive for those looking to invest in land or housing at a lower cost.

3. Utilities:

   • Utilities such as electricity, water, and waste disposal add to the overall cost of housing. Monthly electricity bills in Nasarawa typically range from ₦5,000 to ₦15,000, depending on usage and reliance on alternative power sources like generators due to inconsistent public supply.
   • Water supply in urban areas is often provided through boreholes or private water tanker services, which can cost an additional ₦3,000 to ₦8,000 per month.

Food and Groceries

Food costs in Nasarawa State are generally affordable, especially if you shop at local markets where fresh produce is readily available due to the state’s strong agricultural base.

1. Local Markets:

   • Markets in Nasarawa, such as the Lafia Modern Market and Keffi Main Market, offer a variety of fresh vegetables, grains, fruits, and meats at competitive prices. A kilogram of rice costs between ₦600 and ₦900, while a kilogram of beans ranges from ₦500 to ₦700.
   • Meat prices vary, with a kilogram of beef typically costing around ₦2,000 to ₦3,000, and a whole chicken priced between ₦2,000 and ₦3,500, depending on the market conditions.

2. Supermarkets:

   • Supermarkets in urban areas like Lafia offer a more convenient shopping experience but at slightly higher prices compared to local markets. A loaf of bread costs between ₦800 and ₦1,200, while a liter of vegetable oil ranges from ₦1,500 to ₦2,500.
   • Imported and branded goods, often found in these supermarkets, are generally more expensive, contributing to higher grocery bills.

3. Eating Out:

   • Eating out in Nasarawa is quite affordable, with local restaurants and bukas (local eateries) offering traditional dishes like pounded yam, rice, and soups for prices ranging from ₦300 to ₦1,500 per meal.
   • Dining at mid-range restaurants or hotels in Lafia can cost between ₦2,000 and ₦6,000 per person, depending on the establishment and menu selection.

Transportation Costs

Transportation in Nasarawa State is relatively affordable, with various options including public buses, taxis, motorcycles (okadas), and tricycles (Keke NAPEP).

1. Public Transportation:

   • Public transportation within cities like Lafia and Keffi is inexpensive. A typical bus ride within the city costs between ₦50 and ₦150, while tricycles charge between ₦50 and ₦100 depending on the distance.
   • Taxis are slightly more expensive, with fares ranging from ₦100 to ₦300 within the city, depending on the location and distance.

2. Private Transportation:

   • Owning a car in Nasarawa comes with additional costs such as fuel, maintenance, and repairs. Fuel prices currently average around ₦620 per liter, with monthly fuel expenses ranging from ₦15,000 to ₦50,000 depending on usage.
   • Maintenance costs, including routine servicing and repairs, add another ₦5,000 to ₦15,000 per month, depending on the vehicle’s condition and age.

Healthcare Costs

Healthcare services in Nasarawa State include both public and private facilities, with costs varying significantly between the two.

1. Public Healthcare:

   • Public hospitals, such as the Dalhatu Araf Specialist Hospital in Lafia, offer basic healthcare services at subsidized rates. Consultation fees are generally between ₦500 and ₦2,000, but the quality of care can be inconsistent due to limited resources and high patient loads.

2. Private Healthcare:

   • Private hospitals and clinics offer more reliable services but at a higher cost. A consultation at a private clinic typically costs between ₦3,000 and ₦10,000, and specialized treatments can be significantly more expensive.
   • Private healthcare is preferred by many residents due to shorter waiting times, better facilities, and more personalized care.

3. Pharmaceuticals:

   • The cost of medications depends on whether they are locally manufactured or imported. Common drugs such as painkillers, antimalarials, and antibiotics typically cost between ₦500 and ₦3,000 depending on the brand.

Education Costs

Education in Nasarawa State varies between public and private institutions, with costs depending on the quality of education and facilities offered.

1. Primary and Secondary Education:

   • Public schools are generally affordable, with nominal fees often covered by the government. Parents may still need to pay for uniforms, books, and other supplies, which can cost between ₦10,000 and ₦20,000 per term.
   • Private schools offer better facilities and a higher standard of education but come at a premium. Fees for private primary schools range from ₦50,000 to ₦150,000 per term, while secondary school fees range from ₦100,000 to ₦300,000 per term.

2. Higher Education:

   • Nasarawa State is home to several higher institutions, including Nasarawa State University in Keffi and Federal University, Lafia. Tuition fees at public universities range from ₦50,000 to ₦200,000 per year, depending on the course of study.
   • Private universities and specialized colleges are more expensive, with annual fees ranging from ₦300,000 to ₦1,000,000, depending on the program and institution.

Other Living Expenses

1. Clothing and Personal Care:

   • Clothing costs vary depending on where you shop. Traditional attire is generally affordable, with a set costing between ₦5,000 and ₦15,000, while branded or imported clothing is more expensive.
   • Personal care items, such as toiletries, cosmetics, and grooming services, can add another ₦5,000 to ₦10,000 per month to the overall cost of living.

2. Entertainment and Leisure:

   • Entertainment options in Nasarawa include parks, cinemas, and shopping malls. A movie ticket costs between ₦1,000 and ₦2,500, while visiting leisure spots like Karu Mall may involve additional costs for shopping and dining.
   • The nightlife in Nasarawa is relatively subdued compared to larger cities, but there are still places to relax, including local bars, restaurants, and cultural centers.

Conclusion

The cost of living in Nasarawa State is generally lower compared to major urban centers like Lagos and Abuja, making it an attractive place for those seeking a balance between affordability and quality of life. Housing, food, and transportation are the primary contributors to living expenses, with healthcare and education also playing significant roles in the overall cost structure.

With its unique mix of urban and rural settings, Nasarawa offers residents a chance to enjoy a quieter, more affordable lifestyle while remaining close to the bustling opportunities of the Federal Capital Territory. Understanding the cost of living in Nasarawa will help you make informed decisions about living, working, or investing in this rapidly growing state.