With an estimated population of over 20 million, Lagos is Nigeria’s largest city and one of the largest metropolitan areas in the world. Lagos, as the economic and financial capital of the country, is a magnet for people seeking business and career opportunities. However, the city’s rapid growth comes with several challenges, like heavy traffic, high costs of living, inadequate infrastructure, and overcrowded neighborhoods.
Choosing where to live in Lagos depends on your budget, lifestyle priorities, and employment location, among other factors. While mainland neighborhoods offer more affordable housing, Lagos Island locales like Ikoyi and Victoria Island host premium residential estates for high-net-worth individuals. The Atlantic coastal areas of Lekki and Ajah are also catching up with modern developments. This blog post explores the best places to live in Lagos today based on criteria such as prices, infrastructure, security, accessibility, and overall quality of life.
Lagos offers wonderful neighborhoods that may offer you a comfortable living experience whether you’re a young bachelor, a family member, or a retiree. Below is our list of the best places to live in Lagos for the best experience of city life.
Continue reading to see what makes these vibrant megacities the best places for both natives and foreigners to call home right here in Lagos.
Best Places to Live in Lagos
1. Visit VI, Lekki
The upscale neighborhood of VI in Lekki Phase 1 offers one of the most desirable places to live on the Lagos mainland. Situated on the coastal stretch of the Lekki Peninsula just off the Lekki-Epe Expressway, VI has rapidly transitioned into a luxurious residential enclave with masterplanned estates, gated communities, and top amenities.
VI gets its name from being Phase 1 of an urban development project by the Lagos State Government spanning six neighborhoods labeled I to VI. Being one of the earliest developed parts of Lekki, VI enjoys good road connectivity and access to the business districts of Victoria Island and Lagos Island.
The privately developed gated communities and estates in VI aim at high-net-worth individuals. They offer luxury apartments, townhouses, and detached homes in a resort-style setting with facilities like swimming pools, recreation centers, mini-marts, and security personnel. Notable examples include Clear Essence, Chevron Drive Estates, Oakwood Park, and Tetrazzini.
While purchasing or renting a property in VI is expensive, you get value via amenities like constant electricity, piped water, underground drainage, tarred roads, and street lighting. The area also boasts top schools like the British International School and the American International School of Lagos. On weekends, VI residents can unwind at leisure spots like the Nike Art Gallery.
2. Ikoyi
Located between Lagos Island and Victoria Island along the eastern coastline, Ikoyi is one of Lagos’ most exclusive and prestigious residential neighborhoods. With origins as an upmarket enclave for British expatriates, Ikoyi still retains its elite status as home to affluent families, diplomats, and expatriates.
Real estate in Ikoyi consists of luxury condominiums, apartments, and terraces in masterplanned estates as well as custom-built mansions on large plots. Notable communities include The Foreshore Estate, Dolphin Estate, Parkview Estate, and Beverly Hills Estate among others. These offer amenities like swimming pools, clubhouses, 24-hour electricity and security.
Despite heavy traffic congestion in surrounding areas, Ikoyi offers a relatively tranquil environment with tree-lined streets and parks like Independence Park Lagos. The neighborhood also has several embassies, five-star hotels, and offices of multinational corporations nearby.
3. Banana Island
Sitting on the foreshore of Ikoyi, Banana Island is an ultra-exclusive artificial island housing some of the most expensive real estate in Africa. Detached luxury villas, apartments, and penthouses on Banana Island fetch multimillion-dollar price tags owing to the elite status of owners and residents.
Banana Island provides a sanctuary from the hustle and bustle of mainland Lagos with tight security and controlled access via a dedicated road and bridge. Residents enjoy amenities like private beaches, squash courts, tennis courts, and a golf course. The island has its own electricity generation plant and water supply.
Owing to its exclusivity and secluded location in the Lagos Lagoon, Banana Island has become a residential haven for the super-rich including wealthy business moguls, oil tycoons, and celebrities seeking privacy and luxury. However, with property prices out of reach for the majority of Nigerians, Banana Island remains a dream reserved only for the top echelons of society.
4. Ikeja GRA
For an upscale neighborhood with enhanced infrastructure at relatively affordable rates, Ikeja GRA ranks highly among the best places to live in Lagos. As the name suggests, Ikeja GRA was originally built to house senior civil servants and diplomats. Today, it comprises mostly private residential developments occupied by upper-middle-income professionals.
Located in the Alausa district just north of Ikeja city center, Ikeja GRA spans a planned layout with organized streets in a quiet, serene environment. Residents can access various amenities like hospitals, malls, restaurants, banks, schools, and airports nearby. Security is also better compared to other parts of the Lagos mainland.
Ikeja GRA mostly comprises duplexes and bungalows in fenced compounds with ample outdoor space. While not as posh as Victoria Island or Ikoyi, it offers quality housing at relatively affordable costs per month for rentals. Overall, Ikeja GRA balances convenience, security, and costs, making it one of Lagos’ best places to live for families and executives.
5. Victoria Island
Formerly an upper-class residential neighborhood, Victoria Island has rapidly grown into one of Lagos’ prime commercial and residential locations. Situated between Lagos Island and Lekki Peninsula along the Atlantic coastline, Victoria Island initially hosted expatriate families in colonial homes.
Today, those historic homes have largely been replaced with luxury high-rise developments comprising apartments, penthouses, and townhouses. These cater to upper-middle-income professionals, executives, and wealthy families seeking an urban lifestyle.
6. Magodo GRA
Located between the mainland neighborhoods of Ketu and Omole, Magodo GRA provides a serene residential escape from the chaos of Lagos. Originally built for civil servants, it comprises mostly private residential developments today occupied by upper-middle-income professionals.
Magodo GRA features organized rows of detached and semi-detached homes in secured compounds. Unlike the haphazard buildings found elsewhere in Lagos, Magodo GRA hosts quality housing with adequate outdoor space. The tree-lined streets and green parks enhance the aesthetics too.
In terms of amenities, residents have access to healthcare at Reddington Hospital, shopping at Shoprite, and education at reputable schools like Meadow Hall. Recreational options include the Civic Centre and Muri Okunola Park. The downsides are traffic congestion and pockets prone to flooding during the rainy season.
7. Ogudu GRA
Ogudu GRA, located after Ogudu on the Lagos-Oworonsoki Expressway, provides another top residential option that combines serenity and convenience. Situated between Ogudu and Ojota with links to the Lagos Mainland, Ogudu GRA comprises mostly private residences in detached duplexes and bungalows.
Unlike the densely populated Ogudu neighborhood, Ogudu GRA offers peaceful surroundings in a planned layout with tree-lined streets. Residents also enjoy amenities like electricity, piped water, streetlights, and drainage. There are also commercial areas hosting banks, restaurants, and stores to meet basic needs.
However, Ogudu GRA has experienced rising rates of crime and congestion over the years as surrounding areas get overdeveloped. But its balancing of costs, security, and accessibility still makes it one of the better mainland residential options when commuting to Lagos Island.
8. Parkview Estate
Tucked behind the upscale Ikoyi, Parkview Estate offers luxury apartments and townhouses for upper-middle-income professionals seeking comfort, exclusivity, and status. Located off Glover Road facing Lagos Lagoon, Parkview spans over 100 hectares with various housing types and plenty of open spaces.
The estate’s unique value proposition is the exclusive Parkview Ikoyi Club at the heart of the estate. Residents can enjoy facilities like swimming pools, tennis courts, squash courts, restaurants, and bars. Other amenities in the estate include bowling greens, basketball courts and meticulously maintained gardens.
Compared to congested parts of Lagos, Parkview Estate offers a tranquil environment with 24/7 electricity and security. However, rentals are high per month making it unaffordable for budget home seekers.
9. Osborne Estate
Osborne Foreshore Estate offers an affordable residential option in Ikoyi for middle-income earners. Located along Osborne Road, the estate comprises over 300 detached and semi-detached units in various sizes to suit small and medium-sized families.
Residents enjoy amenities within the gated community like a mini-mart, pharmacy, restaurants, laundry, and recreational spaces. Neighboring Ikoyi also provides opportunities for dining, entertainment, and recreation in proximity.
While Osborne Estate is not as upscale as core Ikoyi neighborhoods, it balances affordable housing starting with proximity to Lagos Island.
10. 1004 Estate
1004 Estate located on Victoria Island provides affordable and luxury apartments for singles, couples, and families seeking an urban lifestyle. Named after its location on 1004 Road in VI, the estate comprises over 500 units in various sizes spanning from 1 to 5-bedroom units across several blocks.
Residents have access to amenities like a gym, pool, tennis court, and convenience store within the premises. 1004 Estate also sits a short distance from Victoria Island’s malls, restaurants, and entertainment spots. The apartments feature modern finishing with options furnished and serviced too. While the cost is relatively high for its location, 1004 Estate remains a popular spot to experience modern, urban living in Lagos.
11. Ajah
Ajah offers a vibrant residential community away from the congestion and high costs of Lekki Phase 1 or Victoria Island. Situated at the intersection between the Lekki-Epe Expressway and the Lekki-Epe corridor, Ajah provides easy access to leisure and work hubs in Lekki, Ikoyi, and Lagos Island.
Ajah has numerous gated estate developments by private developers to cater to middle and upper-middle-income residents. These include Imperial Castle Estate, Paradise Estate, Carlton Gate Estate, Clear Essence Estate, and Chevy View Estate among others. The estates offer amenities, security, and community living at relatively affordable rates.
In terms of infrastructure, Ajah hosts reputable schools, banks, restaurants, nightlife spots, and malls like Circle Mall. The main disadvantages are congestion on the Lekki-Epe Expressway during rush hours and flooding during the rainy season. But overall, Ajah provides a reputable residential location away from the sky-high rents of Lagos hotspots.
12. Agungi
Agungi provides affordable homes in a relatively serene environment, perfect for small and medium-sized families. Located between Lekki Phase 1 and Ajah, Agungi comprises mostly private estate developments like Agungi Paradise, Lekki Gardens, and Mayfair Gardens. These offer detached duplexes and bungalows in gated communities with security, amenities, and open spaces.
Compared to densely populated parts of Lagos, Agungi offers residents some resprieve from the hustle and bustle of the city. However, its distance from Lagos’ commercial districts means dealing with heavy traffic while commuting daily to work. Public transport is also limited. But for home seekers on a budget, Agungi provides decent housing on a low budget.
13. Chevron Drive
Chevron Drive in Lekki Phase 1 is a premium residential address for professionals working on Lagos Island seeking proximity and exclusivity. Located off Ozumba Mbadiwe Way facing the Lagoon, Chevron Drive offers quick access to Victoria Island and Ikoyi within minutes outside rush hour.
Several upscale estates populate the area including Crown Estate and Carlton Gate Estate with luxury apartments, townhouses, and detached units. Residences enjoy scenic views of the Lagos waterways from many areas. Schools, restaurants, and banks are also located within short distances.
14. Alexandra Estate Ikoyi
Alexandra Estate along Queens Drive in Ikoyi offers over 300 detached and semi-detached duplexes perfect for young professionals and families seeking proximity to Lagos Island. Built in the 1960s, the estate features organized rows of homes with ample outdoor spaces.
The estate provides standard amenities including security, perimeter fencing, and recreational facilities like lawn tennis and basketball courts. Residents also have easy access to the commerce and entertainment hubs of Ikoyi.
15. Lekki Peninsula Residential Scheme I
Also known as Leisure Peninsula, this neighborhood provides quality residential options in Lekki Phase 1 for professionals working on Lagos Island. Located just off the Lekki-Epe Expressway on the coastal stretch, it provides quick access to Victoria Island and Ikoyi.
The area has community estates developed by government agencies like Lagos State Development and Property Company (LSDPC). These include estates like Lakepoint and Ologolo Court with duplexes, bungalows, and apartments at affordable rates.
Residents also enjoy amenities like ample green spaces, playgrounds, perimeter fencing, and security. However, proximity to the lagoon makes the area prone to flooding during the rainy season. But overall, the neighborhood balances convenience and comfort.
16. Lekki Phase 1
Lekki Phase 1 houses some of the most exclusive gated communities and estates targeting high-income urban professionals. Located between Ajah and Victoria Island facing the Lagoon, it comprises mostly private upscale developments like Admiralty Way, Freedom Way, Bay View Estate, and Crown Estate among others.
These estates offer luxury apartments and townhouses in a resort-style setting with infinity pools, clubhouses, playgrounds, and fitness centers. Lekki Phase 1 also has reputable international schools, hotels, offices, and the high-end Lekki Mall nearby.
For residents who can afford rents upwards of N500,000 monthly, Lekki Phase 1 offers an upscale residence with proximity to Victoria Island and Ikoyi. However, congestion is increasingly becoming a concern during rush hours.
17. Ogba
Ogba provides a budget-friendly residential locale in mainland Lagos suitable for lower middle-income earners. Located at the intersection between Agege Motor Road and Lagos-Abeokuta Expressway, it connects to major employment and commercial hubs on Lagos Island and Ikeja.
Ogba has residential estates developed by government agencies like Lagos State Development and Property Company (LSDPC). These comprise mostly 1, 2, and 3-bedroom flats in multi-story buildings costing between N100,000 to N300,000 a month. While lacking high-end amenities, these estates offer affordable housing with water, electricity, and security.
Infrastructure and transportation connections are also improving with the Lagos Metro Line railway terminal under construction. Ogba also hosts offices, banks, restaurants, bars, stores, and markets making it largely self-sustaining. Overall, it provides a cost-effective option for price-sensitive home seekers.
18. Abule Egba
Bordering Ogun State, Abule Egba provides affordable housing off the Lagos-Abeokuta Expressway in a busy suburban locale. Its proximity to the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway connects it to employment centers in Ikeja and Alausa.
This neighborhood offers a reasonable rent amount per month comprising 1 and 2-bedroom flats. While lacking high-end amenities, basic infrastructure like electricity and plumbing are available. Abule Egba also has commercial areas with supermarkets, eateries, banks, and markets.
However, congestion, pollution, inadequate waste management, and petty crime pose challenges. Regardless, Abule Egba remains one of the cheapest places to live in Lagos for lower-income groups. Proximity to Lagos without sky-high rents makes it attractive.
19. Agege
For home seekers on tight budgets, Agege and its surrounding neighborhoods offer affordable rents per month. Located north of Ikeja along the Abeokuta Expressway, Agege provides residents who commute daily to mainland business districts.
Comprising densely populated streets, Agege has low-income housing, tenements, and residential estates owned by government agencies. Basic amenities like electricity, water, and sanitation are available but often overburdened. However, commercial areas like Agege Market provide affordable goods and services to residents.
While costs are low, challenges like congestion, pollution, crime, and infrastructure deficits create a chaotic living environment. Public services like waste management are also overburdened. But for migrant laborers and students on tight budgets, Agege offers some of the most affordable rents in Lagos.
Also, read 20 Fun Places In Ikeja, Lagos
20. Alimosho
Alimosho, located north of Ikeja, is the largest local government area in Lagos, comprising over 1 million residents. Often referred to as the Lagos,’ Alimosho has densely populated neighborhoods housing the working class and lower-middle income groups.
Areas like Egbeda, Ipaja, Abaranje, and Ikotun offer affordable housing ranging from small tenement flats to 1- and 2-bedroom units within estates developed by government agencies. Rents start at as low as N30,000 per month. Basic amenities and infrastructure are available but overburdened.
However, Alimosho also suffers from issues like congestion, pollution, petty crime, and inadequate municipal services. Public transport via roads and the Lagos Metro rail network provides connections to other parts of Lagos. Overall, Alimosho offers affordable residence costs at the expense of comfort and convenience.
Conclusion
Lagos provides a wide spectrum of residential options across various locations, budgets, and lifestyles. While areas like VI, Ikoyi, and Lekki Phase 1 cater to the ultra-wealthy looking for luxury and exclusivity, locations like Ogba and Agege offer affordable accommodation for budget seekers.
Your priorities regarding costs, commute times, amenities, and safety should drive your decision. However, Lagos provides vibrant neighborhood options for all categories of residents seeking the best places to call home.
