See list of top 10 most expensive states in Nigeria, 2025

Inflation remains a major economic challenge in Nigeria, affecting the cost of food, housing, transportation, and other essential goods and services.

Despite efforts by the government and the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) to control price hikes, some states continue to experience high inflation rates, making them the most expensive places to live.

In February 2025, Nigeria’s headline inflation rate saw a slight moderation compared to previous months.

However, the impact of inflation is felt differently across states, with food prices remaining a significant concern.

While the rebasing of inflation figures in January 2025 adjusted some of the reported rates, the underlying cost of living pressures persist, particularly in states where food inflation remains high.

This article examines the top 10 most expensive states in Nigeria, based on annual and month-on-month inflation trends.

The analysis highlights how different factors including food shortages, transportation costs, and economic policies affect price increases across the country.

1. Edo – 33.6%

Edo is the most expensive state in Nigeria, with an inflation rate of 33.6% and food inflation at 35.1%.

Month-on-month, food inflation surged by 10.3%, while overall inflation rose by 8.9%, reflecting a rapid and ongoing increase in living costs.

2. Enugu – 30.7%

Enugu recorded an inflation rate of 30.7%, with food inflation at 31.6%. Month-on-month, food inflation grew by 4.0%, while general inflation rose by 4.6%, showing steady increases across multiple sectors.

3. Sokoto – 30.2%

Sokoto’s inflation rate reached 30.2%, but food inflation was significantly higher at 38.3%.

The state saw one of the highest month-on-month increases, with food prices rising by 18.8% and overall inflation climbing by 12.0%, signaling severe inflationary pressure.

4. Imo – 30.1%

Imo remains one of the most expensive states, with an inflation rate of 30.1%. Food inflation stood at 29.0%, indicating that both food and other essential goods are driving costs.

Monthly, food inflation rose by 1.1%, while overall inflation increased by 2.1%.

5. Zamfara – 29.3%

Zamfara recorded an inflation rate of 29.3%, with food inflation at 28.2%. On a monthly basis, food inflation rose by 3.1%, while general inflation increased by **3.3%, showing steady price pressures.

6. Abia – 29.2%

Abia’s inflation rate hit 29.2%, with food prices increasing by 31.9% year-on-year. However, month-on-month data suggests a more moderate rise, with food prices growing by 2.3% and overall inflation increasing by 1.6%.

7. Gombe – 26.5%

Gombe experienced an inflation rate of 26.5%, with food prices rising by 28.5%.

Month-on-month, food inflation grew by 4.2%, while overall inflation climbed by 5.4%, indicating persistent inflationary pressure.

8. Ogun – 25.8%

Ogun recorded an inflation rate of 25.8%, with food inflation at 23.0%. Unlike many states, food inflation is lower than general inflation, suggesting that other goods and services contribute significantly to the high cost of living.

9. Nasarawa – 25.3%

With an inflation rate of 25.3%, Nasarawa ranks ninth. Food prices surged by 33.5% annually, driving inflation in the state.

On a monthly basis, food inflation spiked by 15.3%, while the overall inflation rate increased by 6.9%, reflecting a sharp rise in living costs.

10. Ebonyi – 25.1%

Ebonyi recorded an annual inflation rate of 25.1%, with food inflation at 28.1%. However, month-on-month data suggests some stabilization, as food inflation rose by just 0.5%, while overall prices declined by -0.3%.