Tell me about the cost of living in Lagos, Nigeria

First and foremost, keep in mind that Nigeria is a destination with a high hardship rating - so you shouldn't just be concerned about what you kind of salary you'll need to survive, but rather, what your company should pay you to actually "lure" you abroad. In addition to accommodation and transport, you'll need to try and negotiate plane tickets and healthcare into your salary. If coming with your children, anticipate shelling out a massive amount for the tuition costs of the international schools (look on the individual sites for an estimation of cost).

Also, keep in mind that Nigeria is not the best place for kids, and bringing your children to the African nation can greatly change your experience. You're likely to end up being frustratedby the logistics that surround your children's activities and well-being.

I've contacted our local expert to give you a more specific response, but if you haven't already done so, I highly recommed you have a look at the Expat Arrivals Nigeria guide.

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Lagos is not a cheap place to live, especially if you want to try to live the same way as you did in your own country. Which you can do as it is possible to get most things, obviously more expensive as they have to be freighted in but they are fairly easy to obtain. However Do not believe everything you hear about how bad it is. You need to embrace the different culture and appreciate you are in another country but if you do that you can enjoy the experience. There are a great many ex pat families with young children and babies here, some who have been here for several years so it can't be that bad. Lagos has a good range of restaurants and other facilities within easy access. There are several thriving ex pat wives groups depending on your nationalities and a wide range of activities available for families, spouse and children. You do have to get involved though it is a two way activity and you have to make an effort. There are some days when I can't fit everything in! You need to check if your package includes domestic help, a must. You would also need to ensure that you will be able to survive financially for a while until your bank account is set up unless your company has another way of providing you with living expenses. there are several different ways dependent on your company.

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Lagos is one of Nigeria's expensive cities but very bubbly and alive. There are a number of foreigners living there, so adapting shouldn't be much of an issue.

If accommodation, car and driver are provided, then your mostly expenses for your family should be in the range of 10,000 naira to less than 20,000 naira. Another major expense would be school fees for your kids if they are of school age. International schools are quite expensive.Also, hope your company would provide you with a stand by generator for electricity as power isn't so stable.

I'll advise that you confirm from your company, the area where you'll be living. Choice areas will be Ikoyi, Victoria Island, Lekki and maybe Ikeja. These areas house expats and high net worth individuals and are generally safer, closer to shops of international standards, cinema's etc and are more beautiful.

New culture to get used to, but I'm sure you'll love it.

Cheers and enjoy your stay :)!

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