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• Muna Tengi
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The Cost Of Living In Kaduna State

Kaduna State, located in northwestern Nigeria, is one of the country’s largest states, both in terms of land area and population. Known for its rich history, cultural diversity, and economic significance, Kaduna serves as a key economic and political hub in northern Nigeria. Over the years, Kaduna has grown into a cosmopolitan city, attracting people from various parts of the country and even beyond.

One of the most critical aspects of relocating to or living in Kaduna is understanding the cost of living. Whether you are a student, a working professional, or a business owner, having a grasp of the living expenses can help in budgeting and financial planning. In this blog post, we will break down the cost of living in Kaduna State, covering essential aspects such as housing, transportation, food, healthcare, education, and utilities.

1. Housing and Accommodation

Housing is one of the most significant factors that impact the cost of living in any location, and Kaduna is no exception. The cost of accommodation in Kaduna depends largely on the location, type of housing, and the quality of infrastructure available.

• A well-furnished two-bedroom apartment in areas like Barnawa, Malali, or Ungwan Rimi, which are considered prime locations in Kaduna, can range between ₦400,000 to ₦800,000 per year. These areas offer relatively modern facilities and are favored by middle-class families, expatriates, and professionals.

• In cheaper areas like Sabon Tasha, Zaria Road, and Tudun Wada, a similar two-bedroom apartment can cost as low as ₦150,000 to ₦300,000 annually. However, the quality of infrastructure in these areas may not be as high as in the more upscale neighborhoods.

• University students in Kaduna, particularly those attending Ahmadu Bello University (ABU) in Zaria or Kaduna State University (KASU), often opt for shared accommodations. Student housing can cost around ₦50,000 to ₦100,000 per year, with cheaper hostels available both on and off-campus.

For those considering homeownership, the price of land varies depending on the location. In highbrow areas like GRA or Malali, the cost of land can go as high as ₦10 million per plot, while in suburban or rural areas, land can be acquired for ₦500,000 to ₦2 million per plot.

2. Food and Groceries

Kaduna is known for its agricultural abundance, which plays a role in keeping food prices relatively affordable. The state has a rich variety of locally grown food, including grains, fruits, and vegetables, making it easier for residents to maintain a balanced diet without breaking the bank.

• A basic meal at a local restaurant costs around ₦300 to ₦500. If you prefer eating at a higher-end restaurant, a three-course meal for two could cost between ₦5,000 to ₦10,000, depending on the location and the type of restaurant.

• For those who prefer to cook at home, a monthly grocery bill for a family of four can range from ₦30,000 to ₦70,000, depending on dietary preferences. The cost of staple foods is affordable. For example, a bag of rice (50 kg) costs between ₦25,000 and ₦35,000, while a carton of tomatoes costs around ₦3,000 to ₦5,000. Vegetables and fruits are abundant and affordable, particularly in local markets like Kawo Market and Kasuwan Magani.

• If you prefer to shop in supermarkets like Shoprite or Spar, expect to pay a premium for imported goods. A loaf of bread in a supermarket can cost between ₦500 to ₦700, while in a local bakery, the price may be lower, at ₦250 to ₦400.

3. Transportation

The transportation system in Kaduna State is a mix of public and private options. Whether you’re moving within the city or traveling to other parts of Nigeria, transportation costs are relatively affordable, making mobility one of the least expensive aspects of living in Kaduna.

• Public transportation in Kaduna is dominated by minibuses, taxis, and motorcycles (commonly known as "okadas"). A short bus ride within the city costs around ₦50 to ₦100, while a taxi ride for a similar distance may cost between ₦200 to ₦500. Motorcycle fares depend on the distance, typically costing around ₦50 to ₦200 for short trips.

• For inter-state travel, Kaduna's central location provides access to many transportation options. A bus ride to Lagos, for example, can cost between ₦8,000 and ₦12,000, while a trip to Abuja, which is only about 2-3 hours away by road, costs around ₦1,500 to ₦3,000. Kaduna is also connected by railway services, with modern trains running between Kaduna and Abuja for about ₦3,000 in economy class and ₦6,000 in first class.

• Fuel costs for those who own private vehicles fluctuate in Nigeria, depending on the national fuel pricing policies. On average, the cost of petrol hovers around ₦200 to ₦300 per liter. A car owner might spend between ₦15,000 to ₦50,000 monthly on fuel, depending on their usage.

4. Healthcare

Healthcare is another crucial aspect of living expenses. Kaduna has a variety of healthcare facilities, ranging from government hospitals to private clinics, offering different levels of service at various price points.

• Government hospitals like the Ahmadu Bello University Teaching Hospital (ABUTH) in Zaria and Barau Dikko Teaching Hospital in Kaduna offer affordable healthcare services. A basic consultation can cost between ₦500 to ₦2,000, while treatment for common ailments like malaria can range from ₦1,500 to ₦5,000, depending on the severity and treatment method.

• Private hospitals tend to charge more for consultations, ranging from ₦3,000 to ₦10,000. However, these facilities often offer shorter wait times and more personalized care. Emergency care and surgeries, of course, cost much more, particularly in private hospitals.

For health insurance, those covered under NHIS (National Health Insurance Scheme) typically pay minimal out-of-pocket expenses, making healthcare more affordable.

5. Education

Kaduna has a wide range of educational options, from public to private institutions, at both primary and tertiary levels.

• Public primary and secondary schools are highly subsidized, with annual fees ranging between ₦5,000 and ₦20,000. However, many parents opt for private schools, which offer higher standards of education and better facilities. Fees for private schools vary, with some charging between ₦50,000 and ₦200,000 per term, depending on the reputation of the school.

• For higher education, Kaduna boasts institutions like Ahmadu Bello University in Zaria and Kaduna State University. Tuition fees in public universities range from ₦30,000 to ₦100,000 annually, while private universities can charge significantly more, with fees ranging between ₦300,000 to ₦1 million per year.

6. Utilities

Utilities, such as electricity, water, and internet, play a significant role in the cost of living.

• Electricity costs vary depending on usage. On average, households in Kaduna pay between ₦5,000 and ₦20,000 monthly for electricity. Power supply is relatively stable compared to other parts of Nigeria, but residents still rely on generators during outages, adding to fuel costs.

• Water supply in Kaduna is largely dependent on boreholes and water vendors, especially in areas where the public water supply is unreliable. Households spend between ₦2,000 and ₦5,000 monthly on water.

• For internet access, mobile data plans are the most common. Monthly data subscriptions range between ₦3,000 and ₦10,000, depending on usage and provider. Broadband internet is available but tends to be more expensive, with monthly fees ranging from ₦15,000 to ₦30,000.

Conclusion

The cost of living in Kaduna State is relatively affordable compared to larger Nigerian cities like Lagos and Abuja. While housing and food prices are reasonable, the cost of living can fluctuate based on personal preferences, lifestyle choices, and location within the state. Kaduna’s central position, agricultural abundance, and relatively stable infrastructure make it an attractive location for families, students, and professionals alike. Whether you’re relocating for work, education, or business, Kaduna provides a balance between affordability and access to essential services, making it a viable option for those seeking a comfortable lifestyle in northern Nigeria.