10 Best Places to Live in Lagos Right Now [2023 List]

Is Lagos A Good Place To Live
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The beautiful city of Lagos is one of the best places to reside in Nigeria. In this post, I will be revealing the top 10 best places to live in Lagos, the best affluent societies in Lagos, and some of the best neighborhoods to reside in Lagos.

Lagos State is also one of the fastest-growing cities in the world, with rapid growth in the conurbation, urban agglomerations, and population, Lagos is one of the best places to live in Nigeria, one of the most beautiful places in West Africa, and a top residency location for most Nigerians and foreign immigrants.

Lagos is a beautiful metropolis that has attracted millions of investors and tourists to Nigeria. The city of Lagos is a small metropolis in the western part of Nigeria. Lagos is the smallest and most populous state in Nigeria. The level of achievement that has been attained in Lagos has made it the crown jewel of Africa.

It is no wonder why hundreds of people including Nigerians and Non-Nigerians migrate to Lagos every day. The social and economic development of the state is one of the main reasons why many people will want to reside in Lagos state.

Lagos has the highest number of international and top-class companies, good schools, a lively and entertaining environment, and proper social amenities in the country. As a major financial center in Africa and a metropolis in Nigeria, Lagos houses some of the largest and busiest seaports on the continent, life in Lagos offers a promising future.

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The main problem with Lagos is that the city is overpopulated. The city of Lagos covers an outstanding of 1,171.28 square kilometers (452.23 square miles) and has more than 17 million residents. With a population density of 6,871 residents per square kilometer, employment may pose a problem for most people living and relocating to Lagos.

With that said, there are a lot of fun things that you can do in Lagos. In this article, I’m going to show you the best areas to live in Lagos. These places are safe, clean, secure, and possess the necessary infrastructure and support, you need to live comfortably.

10 Best Areas to Live in Lagos

If you want to reside in a peaceful and secure neighborhood in Lagos that has a lot of good schools, friendly neighbors, a developed society, and a business-friendly neighborhood, then these are the best places to live in Lagos.

1. Victoria Island

Victoria Island (VI) is another affluent area located in the Eti-Osa Local Government Area of Lagos state. It contains a former island that shares its borders with Lagos Island, Ikoyi, and the Lekki Peninsula.

Victoria Island is one of the best places to live in Lagos. Victoria Island has become the choice location for big multinational companies in Nigeria. VI is the choice headquarters of many big companies & businesses in Lagos since 1985.

Although Victoria Island is the most expensive place to live on the Lagos mainland, it is worth every Naira. One of the best residence options in this area is the Eko Atlantic. It’s a fabulous place to reside if you plan to buy a house in VI.

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Victoria Island is a notable elite and expensive area to reside in Lagos. It is the principal financial center of Lagos. A lot of banks have their headquarters on Victoria Island and the United States Consulate General is located on Victoria Island. VI is one of the smartest places to start a business in Lagos.

Victoria Island is also the most secure place in Lagos from both robbery & accidents. In general, VI has the most elegant buildings, residential developments, restaurants, schools, parks, and security systems in all of Nigeria.

2. Lekki

Lekki is a city located in the Eastern part of Lagos State, Nigeria. Lekki is a naturally formed peninsula, close to Victoria Island and Ikoyi, and has a fantastic view of the Atlantic Ocean to its South, Lagos Lagoon to the North, and Lekki Lagoon to its East. Lekki is basically where celebrities live in Lagos.

When it comes to money and class, there is nowhere in Lagos like Lekki. Lekki is the Beverly Hills in Nigeria. The Lekki-Ajah axis is another amazing area to reside in Lagos. The ongoing construction of the Dangote refinery will make Lekki one of the best investment positions in Africa.

Lekki has come a long way in terms of expansion and development than Victoria Island, Ikoyi, and Lagos Island. This affluent society is one of the best places to start a business in Nigeria.

Lekki is a place in Lagos that offers amazing job opportunities, reliable government support, high-quality private schools, top-notch medical facilities, shopping complex and malls, sports, and recreational facilities.

Some of the best areas in Lekki are located in Ajah, Lekki Phase 1, Richmond Gate, and Victoria Garden City. Overall, Lekki is one of the best areas to live in Lagos.

3. Ikoyi

Ikoyi is the most affluent neighborhood in Lagos state. Ikoyi is located in the Eti-Osa Local Government Area of Lagos, in the Northeastern region of Obalende, close to Lagos Island & the Lagos Lagoon.

Ikoyi is the home of some of the richest & upper-class residents and surely the wealthiest community in Nigeria. The Crime rate in Ikoyi is almost zero and the society compliments this feature with top-notch security. 

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There are a lot of good schools, Montessori, colleges, and institutes in Ikoyi that make it an ideal environment for raising children. Not only is Ikoyi one of the best places to live in Lagos, but also one of the most secure places in Lagos.

The headquarters of Google Nigeria is situated in Ikoyi.

The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), the World Health Organisation (WHO), the Nigerian Government Presidential Secretariat, and the Deputy-Governor of Lagos State live in Ikoyi, Lagos.

Ikoyi is another choice area in Lagos state that is convenient to reside in and do business. Ikoyi is one of the safest places to live in Lagos. It used to be a quarter for British colonialists and has been known to house the wealthy Nigerians and immigrants. This neighborhood is simply exceptional.

Ikoyi is probably the most affluent neighborhood of Lagos. It has the largest number of rich & wealthy people residing in its territory. Ikoyi is one of the best places to buy houses in Lagos for long-term investment in Nigeria.

4. Surulere

Surulere is one of the best places to live in Lagos. It is at the center of Lagos and is located on the Lagos mainland.

Surulere is connected to almost all routes and roads in Lagos. From Surulere, a transport fare of ₦500 can take you to almost any part of Lagos whether the airport, stadium, Oshodi, Victoria Island, Lagos Island, or Alaba just name it.

Surulere is a residential and commercial LGA located in the Lagos Mainland. It has an area of 23 km² containing 503,975 residents (2006), with a population density of 21,864 inhabitants per square kilometer.

Surulere has also housed and has/had famous people like Wizkid Ayo Balogun, Babatunde Raji Fashola, Teslim Fatusi, Aliko Dangote, Simi, Desmond Elliot, Pepenazi… Did I mention that Surulere is an urban community?

Yes, it is an urban area with street lights, super malls, sports complexes, CCTV cameras, boutiques, and tarred roads all in a very neat and cozy environment. 

It also has popular landmarks like the National Stadium Lagos, National Arts Theatre, Teslim Balogun Stadium, Adeniran Ogunsanya Shopping Mall, Ojuelegba, Amala Shitta, St. Anthony’s Catholic Church, the Nigeria Internet Registration Association (NIRA), and the Nigerian Breweries.

Surulere is one of the best places to live on the Lagos mainland. If you are looking for a place to reside in Lagos on a budget, they rent an apartment in Surulere. There are a lot of attractive places to live like Bode Thomas, Coker, Shitta, and Orile.

5. Festac

Festac is a federal housing estate located along the popular Lagos-Badagry Expressway. Festac Town is a federal housing estate located in the Awuwo-Odofin local government area in Lagos.

The name “FESTAC” was derived from the acronym – Second World African Festival of Arts and Culture which was held there in 1977. Just like Surulere, you can access it almost anywhere in.

Festac also provides easy routes that you can use to escape Lagos traffic. Festac offers smooth road access to Ikotun, Mushin, Surulere, Ikeja, and even Oshodi. Festac holds some of the most amazing facts and history about Lagos. 

Festac is one of the best places to live with a family in Lagos, it is one of the most peaceful places in Lagos state. 

The Nigerian government invested substantial sums of money and resources into the construction of Festac Town. This area boasts of reliable power supply, accessible police and fire stations, state of the arts supermarkets, restaurants, hotels, health centers, and post offices. Living in Festac allows you to enjoy your life in Lagos.

6. Ikeja

Ikeja is the capital of Lagos and it remains one of the most populated places in the state. It is regarded as the center of business activities in Lagos because a lot of people choose Ikeja. After all, it allows them to work from home or reside close to their place of work.

The Ikeja computer village is one of the biggest ICT hubs in West Africa. Since it is the capital of Lagos State, it houses a lot of the Nigerian Government parastatals. Some of the most popular areas in Ikeja are Ojodu, Opebi, Akiode, Alausa, Agidingbi, and Magodo & Maryland.

The Ikeja GRA is really nice and well-planned out, it is one of the cheapest places to live in Lagos. This area also links to a lot of important places in Lagos like the Opebi Allen, Alausa, Ilupeju, the Murtala Mohammed International Airport, and the Lagos state house of Assembly.

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Ikeja is an industrial area with several companies making different products. It also has a blend of commercial & residential areas that makes it the perfect place to start a business in the heart of Lagos.  

Ikeja is a well-planned, clean, and quiet residential area in Lagos. If you like to hang out with friends, you should head to the Ikeja City Mall or any cinemas, bars, or restaurants that are found throughout this neighborhood.

There are also a lot of good schools, hospitals, and security outposts in Ikeja. If you like investing, Ikeja is a major goldmine for landlords and property agents. Even if living in Ikeja sounds expensive, it is among the most affordable places to live in Lagos.

7. Yaba

Yaba is another amazing place to live in Lagos. It is a suburb located in Lagos Mainland and one of the best places to start a family in Lagos. Yaba may not be as fancy as Lekki or VI but it is one of the best areas to live in Lagos.

Yaba is the perfect area to live in Lagos, it has a lot of houses, schools, and marketplaces. Yaba boasts of having some of the finest academic facilities in Nigeria. The Queens College, Igbobi College, The Nigerian Institute of Medical Research, The Yaba College of Technology, The University of Lagos, The Federal School Science and Technical College, The Federal College of Education, and a lot of first-class private schools, nurseries, primary, secondary, and tertiary institutions are located in Yaba.

You have a lot to choose from and still keep a close eye on your family. There are also tons of fun places like the Ozone cinema and E-Centre that you can rush to have fun on weekends.

Yaba also has one of the busiest markets in Lagos; The Tejuosho Market in Yaba is open 24/7. Yes, this market is open all day, night, and day again. Yaba may be a bit noisy and chaotic but the security in this area is ok.

8. Apapa

Apapa is a Local Government Area in Lagos, located on the western side of Lagos Island. Apapa is not just an urban community in the center of excellence, it is one of the best places to live in Nigeria.

Apapa is a very active business area. This neighborhood is linked to the Lagos Lagoon and has a lot of ports, terminals, and warehouses that facilitate international trade in Lagos. Apapa also has active railway stations, refineries, shipping companies, clearing and transportation companies, and beautiful residential areas.

Apapa is also home to a lot of businesses: ThisDay Nigerian newspaper has its headquarters in Apapa. All these facts have fostered development in this region and contributed immensely to the growth of commercial and economic activities in Lagos. 

The bad side is that there is a lot of movement of goods and people in Apapa and most of these movements cause major traffic jams and accidents. But the reality is that Apapa still has some of the most luxurious real estate in Lagos.

Its secure environment, well-paved roads, business transactions, and available social amenities make it a choice residency location for most people.

9. Magodo

The Magodo isn’t just close to one of the biggest markets in Lagos, it is one of the most beautiful places in Nigeria. Suppose you are looking for a place to live in Lagos that has good security, a lively environment, fantastic social amenities, good roads, and friendly neighbors. In that case, you should relocate to Magodo.

Magodo is one of the best places to live in Lagos. It is by far the best location to live in if you want to live close to your place of work. The houses and apartments in this part of Lagos are amazing, they look like they were made straight out of glossy foreign magazines.

With a lot of Estates springing up in between Ajah and the Lekki, Magodo is one of the best places to live in Lagos, there are a lot of cheap land and houses in this part of Lagos that you can capitalize on right now.

10. Epe

Epe is a Local Government Area located on the Northern side of the Lekki Lagoon, with a population of 181,409 people (2006), it is one of the best areas to reside in Lagos City. You may be skeptical about this one, but I assure you Epe is not the worst place to live in Nigeria.

Just like Surulere, Epe is also connected to a lot of places in Lagos including Lekki, Lagos Island, Festac, Oshodi, and Surulere. Epe has been witnessing rapid development recently due to its proximity to Lekki.

It is one of the top choices for businesses looking for a West African base in Lagos. It has one of the best residential areas in Lagos. There are also a lot of good schools, police stations, public transport services, supermarkets, banks, healthcare centers, and recreation centers.

Unlike most places on my list, both the high-income earners and working-class citizens can reside comfortably in Epe.

If you are still looking for nice areas to live in Lagos, you can try places like Onipan, Ikotun, Coker Village, Aguda, Iba, Maryland, Ojo, Amukoko, Ijegun, Ikorodu, or Oshodi.

Reasons To Live In These Places in Lagos

1. Victoria Island:

  • Business Hub: Home to numerous multinational companies, Victoria Island offers a thriving business environment.
  • Upscale Living: Upscale residential areas, high-end restaurants, and luxury amenities contribute to a prestigious lifestyle.
  • Cultural Attractions: Proximity to cultural attractions like the National Museum and art galleries enhances the living experience.

2. Ikoyi:

  • Luxury Living: Ikoyi is synonymous with luxury living, featuring upscale residences and leafy neighborhoods.
  • Recreational Spaces: The area boasts beautiful parks, golf courses, and waterfront views, creating a serene and relaxing atmosphere.
  • Diverse Culinary Scene: A variety of high-end restaurants and cafes cater to diverse culinary preferences.

3. Lekki:

  • Beachfront Living: Lekki’s proximity to stunning beaches provides residents with recreational opportunities and beautiful seaside living.
  • Growing Infrastructure: Constant development in infrastructure, including shopping malls and schools, enhances the overall quality of life.
  • Family-Friendly: The presence of family-oriented amenities, parks, and schools makes Lekki an ideal place for families.

4. Ikeja:

  • Commercial Hub: As Lagos’ capital, Ikeja serves as a commercial hub with a concentration of government offices and corporate establishments.
  • Accessibility: Centrally located, Ikeja offers easy access to major roads, transportation hubs, and the airport.
  • Educational Institutions: The presence of reputable schools and educational institutions contributes to its appeal for families.

5. Surulere:

  • Cultural Heritage: Surulere is rich in cultural history, with landmarks like the National Stadium and the National Arts Theatre.
  • Affordability: Compared to some upscale areas, Surulere offers more affordable housing options while maintaining proximity to the city center.
  • Entertainment Hub: It is renowned for its vibrant nightlife, music scene, and diverse entertainment options.

6. Yaba:

  • Educational Hub: Yaba is home to renowned universities and tech hubs, making it an ideal residence for students and professionals.
  • Innovation Centers: The area fosters a culture of innovation, with numerous tech startups and incubators.
  • Cultural Diversity: A blend of cultures and communities adds to the cosmopolitan charm of Yaba.

7. Ajah:

  • Rapid Development: Ajah is experiencing rapid development, with new residential and commercial spaces emerging.
  • Affordable Housing: Compared to some central areas, Ajah offers more affordable housing options without compromising on amenities.
  • Proximity to Lekki: Residents can enjoy the amenities of Lekki while benefiting from a more budget-friendly living arrangement.

8. Ikorodu:

  • Serene Environment: Ikorodu provides a quieter and more serene living environment compared to the bustling city center.
  • Cultural Significance: Rich in cultural history, Ikorodu has traditional festivals and landmarks that contribute to its unique identity.
  • Growing Economy: Ongoing economic development projects are transforming Ikorodu into an increasingly attractive residential area.

9. Agege:

  • Affordability: Agege offers affordable housing options, making it accessible to a diverse demographic.
  • Transportation Hub: With its railway station and major road networks, Agege provides easy access to different parts of Lagos.
  • Market Dynamics: Local markets and economic activities contribute to the vibrancy and affordability of the area.

10. Epe:

  • Natural Beauty: Epe boasts natural beauty, including its proximity to the Lekki Conservation Centre and serene landscapes.
  • Agricultural Opportunities: The area’s focus on agriculture provides a unique living experience with a rural-urban blend.
  • Growing Infrastructure: Ongoing infrastructure projects are enhancing Epe’s connectivity and overall livability.

Conclusion

There you have it, these are officially the 10 best places to reside in Lagos. These places will offer you premium comfort and allow you to access your place of work without hassle. If you ever plan to enjoy life in Lagos, I implore you to move to any of these areas, you’d fall in love with what you see.

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