The Cost Of Living In Zamfara State

Zamfara State, located in the northwestern region of Nigeria, is known for its predominantly agrarian economy, serene environment, and deep-rooted cultural traditions. Although not as industrialized as other states, it is rich in natural resources such as gold and various minerals. The capital city, Gusau, along with other towns such as Kaura Namoda and Talata Mafara, offers a more laid-back lifestyle compared to the bustling cities in the southern part of the country. Living in Zamfara is generally affordable, making it an attractive destination for individuals seeking a simple, low-cost lifestyle. This blog post will break down the cost of living in Zamfara State by examining key areas such as housing, utilities, transportation, food, healthcare, education, and more.

1. Housing and Rent

Housing in Zamfara State is relatively affordable compared to urban centers like Lagos, Abuja, or Port Harcourt. The cost of renting or buying a home in the state’s capital, Gusau, is significantly lower, making it an attractive option for low to middle-income earners.

In Gusau, the state capital, a one-bedroom apartment in the city center can cost between ₦80,000 and ₦150,000 per year. A two-bedroom apartment in the same area can range from ₦150,000 to ₦250,000 annually, while a three-bedroom flat may cost between ₦250,000 and ₦500,000, depending on the location and the quality of the apartment.

In smaller towns like Kaura Namoda and Talata Mafara, rental costs are even lower. A one-bedroom apartment may cost between ₦50,000 and ₦100,000 per year, and larger apartments or houses can be rented for between ₦120,000 and ₦250,000 annually. Rural areas and smaller villages offer even more affordable housing, with rental prices as low as ₦30,000 per year for a modest one-bedroom apartment.

For those looking to buy land and build their homes, Zamfara State offers affordable options. Plots of land in Gusau range from ₦300,000 to ₦2,000,000 depending on the area, while land in smaller towns can be bought for as low as ₦100,000 to ₦500,000 per plot.

2. Utilities

Utilities in Zamfara State, particularly electricity and water, tend to be more affordable but can also be inconsistent. The state’s reliance on the national power grid means that electricity supply can be erratic, especially in rural areas. Many residents rely on generators or solar power as a backup.

Electricity costs for a small household typically range from ₦3,000 to ₦7,000 per month, depending on consumption. However, for those who frequently use generators due to power outages, fuel expenses may add between ₦5,000 and ₦15,000 monthly to their utility bills.

Water supply is generally available through boreholes or private water vendors in Gusau and other towns. Monthly costs for water can range from ₦1,000 to ₦3,000, depending on the household size and water consumption. In more rural areas, where public water systems are scarce, many homes rely on private boreholes or water collection methods from rivers and wells.

Waste disposal services are less organized in Zamfara compared to urbanized states. While some areas in Gusau may have access to waste collection services for around ₦500 to ₦1,000 per month, many residents in rural areas manage their waste disposal independently.

3. Transportation

Transportation costs in Zamfara State are generally low. The state's rural setting means fewer private vehicles and a higher reliance on public transportation such as buses, motorcycles (okadas), and tricycles (keke napeps). Roads are mostly untarred in rural areas, and the availability of commercial vehicles can sometimes be limited.

Within Gusau and other major towns, a short trip on a motorcycle or tricycle typically costs between ₦50 and ₦200 depending on the distance. For longer distances within the state, such as traveling from Gusau to Kaura Namoda or Talata Mafara, bus fares range from ₦200 to ₦500.

Interstate travel is more expensive, with fares from Zamfara to neighboring states such as Sokoto, Katsina, or Kebbi ranging between ₦1,000 and ₦3,000, depending on the destination and type of vehicle. Fuel prices in 2024 hover around ₦600 per liter, which means residents who own private vehicles spend between ₦15,000 and ₦40,000 monthly on fuel, depending on how frequently they drive.

4. Food and Groceries

Zamfara State’s economy is largely driven by agriculture, making food relatively affordable and accessible. Many residents grow their own crops, and the state’s markets are filled with fresh produce, including grains, vegetables, and fruits. This agricultural abundance keeps the cost of food lower than in more urbanized regions of Nigeria.

For a family of four, the weekly grocery budget when shopping at local markets may range from ₦5,000 to ₦10,000. Common staples such as rice, beans, millet, and sorghum are widely available and affordable. A bag of rice costs around ₦40,000, while a measure (mudu) of beans is priced between ₦300 and ₦600 depending on the variety. Fresh vegetables, fruits, and local meats are also affordable, with a bunch of spinach costing around ₦100 to ₦300 and a kilogram of beef priced between ₦1,500 and ₦2,500.

For those who prefer to shop at supermarkets or grocery stores, which are less common in Zamfara compared to larger cities, prices for imported and packaged goods are slightly higher. A family of four may spend between ₦15,000 and ₦30,000 per week in a supermarket, depending on their preferences and consumption habits.

Eating out is also affordable in Zamfara State. A meal at a local restaurant or “buka” costs between ₦200 and ₦500 per person, while more formal dining in a restaurant might cost between ₦500 and ₦1,500 per meal.

5. Healthcare

Healthcare services in Zamfara State are accessible, though they may vary in quality. Public hospitals and clinics offer basic healthcare services at affordable rates, but they often face challenges such as overcrowding, a lack of equipment, and staff shortages.

In public hospitals, consultation fees are minimal, ranging from ₦500 to ₦1,500 per visit. Basic medications are also available at low costs, but more complex treatments or specialized care may not be readily available, requiring patients to travel to neighboring states for advanced medical care.

Private hospitals and clinics provide better quality services but are more expensive. Consultation fees in private facilities range from ₦2,000 to ₦5,000, depending on the type of care required. Specialized treatments and surgeries can be costly, and many residents opt to travel to other states for more advanced medical procedures.

The state government has been working to improve healthcare infrastructure, but residents still rely heavily on private facilities or travel to larger cities for high-quality medical care.

6. Education

Education in Zamfara State is relatively affordable, with a mix of public and private schools available. Public primary and secondary schools charge minimal fees, typically ranging from ₦2,000 to ₦5,000 per term. However, public schools often face challenges such as inadequate teaching materials and overcrowded classrooms.

Private schools offer better quality education but are more expensive. Fees in private primary and secondary schools range from ₦20,000 to ₦100,000 per term, depending on the location and reputation of the school. International-standard schools, which are rare in Zamfara, charge significantly higher fees.

Higher education institutions in the state, such as Zamfara State University in Talata Mafara and the Federal Polytechnic in Kaura Namoda, offer affordable tuition fees. Public university tuition ranges from ₦30,000 to ₦70,000 per session, while polytechnic and college tuition fees fall within a similar range.

7. Entertainment and Leisure

Entertainment options in Zamfara State are limited compared to more urbanized regions of Nigeria. Residents typically enjoy simple leisure activities such as visiting local markets, attending cultural festivals, or spending time with family and friends.

Cinemas, shopping malls, and other modern entertainment venues are scarce, but local festivals and traditional gatherings provide cultural entertainment. Entrance fees to such events, if applicable, are minimal, usually between ₦100 and ₦500.

For residents looking for more modern forms of entertainment, trips to larger cities like Sokoto or Kano may be necessary, adding to transportation and travel costs.

8. Miscellaneous Expenses

Other living expenses in Zamfara State, such as mobile phone services, internet, clothing, and personal care, are generally affordable. Mobile phone and internet expenses typically range from ₦2,000 to ₦5,000 per month, depending on usage. Clothing and personal care items are widely available in local markets at affordable prices.

Conclusion

Zamfara State offers a low-cost, peaceful, and traditional lifestyle. The cost of living is significantly lower than in major urban areas like Lagos or Abuja, with affordable housing, food, and transportation. While utilities and healthcare can be challenging in terms of consistency and quality, the overall affordability of living in Zamfara makes it an attractive option for individuals and families seeking a simpler, more cost-effective lifestyle. Whether you are a student, professional, or retiree, Zamfara State provides an affordable living environment that balances simplicity and cultural richness.