How to Find Affordable Places to Rent in Nigeria’s Major Cities

Finding an affordable apartment in cities like Lagos and Abuja is becoming a real struggle unless you’re ready to stretch your budget beyond comfort. And let’s be honest, house agents aren’t exactly making things easier. Between skyrocketing rent, hidden charges, and last-minute price changes, the process can be exhausting. But don’t worry by the time you’re done reading this, you’ll have the right tools and insider tips to house-hunt like a pro and secure a great place without breaking the bank.

All you need is the right strategy. Whether you’re a young professional, a family looking to settle, or someone simply trying to cut costs, this guide will show you how to navigate Nigeria’s rental market.

1. Know Where to Look—Not Every Hotspot is Expensive

One of the biggest mistakes people make is assuming that only popular areas are worth living in. Yes, places like Lekki (Lagos) or Wuse 2 (Abuja) are trendy, but they come with hefty price tags. The trick? Look for up-and-coming neighborhoods nearby.

For example:

• Instead of Lekki, consider Ajah, Sangotedo, Gbagada or Yaba you’ll still be close to the action without paying premium prices.
• Instead of Wuse 2, check out Gwarinpa, Lugbe, or Jahi. These areas are growing fast and still offer decent housing at fair prices.

Newer estates and less hyped areas tend to have better deals, so don’t rule them out just because they’re not the most talked about.

2. Use Online Platforms to Your Advantage

Gone are the days when you had to rely on house agents (and their endless fees) to find a place. Platforms like PropertyPro.ng and Nigeria Property Centre can help you compare rent prices in different areas before you even step out of your house.

3. Don’t Ignore “Offline” Opportunities

While online platforms are great, word of mouth is still one of the best ways to find hidden gems. Tell your friends, family, or even colleagues that you’re looking for a place they might know of a landlord looking for tenants. Many of the best deals never make it online!

Another trick? Walk around your preferred neighborhood. Many houses available for rent just have “TO LET” signs posted outside. Calling the number directly can save you money on agent commissions.

4. Negotiate Like a Pro

Here’s a secret: rent prices are not always fixed. If a landlord asks for ₦1.5 million, they might actually accept ₦1.3 million especially if you negotiate smartly.

Some tactics that work:

• Offer to pay upfront. Landlords love tenants who can pay 6 months or a year in advance. If you can, use this as a bargaining chip.
• Point out minor issues. If you notice things like a leaking tap or a faulty door handle, mention it and use it to negotiate a lower price.
• Ask about discounts for longer stays. Some landlords give slight discounts if you commit to staying for 2+ years.

5. Consider Flexible Payment Plans

If paying a year’s rent upfront sounds like a lot (because it is!), look for landlords or platforms that offer monthly or quarterly payments. Services like RentSmallSmall and RentspaceTech’s Spacerent allow tenants to save towards rent and even get financial support when needed.

This is a great option if you:

• Prefer spreading payments over time.
• Want to avoid the financial strain of lump-sum payments.
• Need time to build up your savings while securing a good home.

6. Factor in Hidden Costs

Sometimes, rent looks cheap until you realize you also have to pay for service charges (security, water, waste disposal), electricity (some estates require prepaid meters, others don’t), and maintenance fees (especially in gated communities).

Always ask for a full breakdown before committing to a place, so you don’t get caught off guard.

7. Start Your Search Early

The worst time to look for a house? When you’re in a rush. If your rent is expiring soon or you need to move, start searching at least 2-3 months ahead. This gives you time to compare options, negotiate better deals, and avoid overpriced, last-minute rentals.

Final Thoughts

Finding affordable rent in Nigeria’s major cities is tough, but with the right approach, it’s totally doable. By exploring less-hyped areas, using online and offline resources, negotiating smartly, and considering flexible payment plans, you can get a great home without draining your savings.

If you have found a house already, we have laid out some tips on how you can plan and save for your house rent in a twinkle of an eye.