🌍 Overview
As a seasoned digital nomad, I’ve had the privilege of calling Lagos, Nigeria, my home for several months. This vibrant city, nestled on the coast of West Africa, is a melting pot of cultures, sounds, and flavors. Lagos is a city that will leave you breathless, with its infectious energy, rich history, and stunning natural beauty. Despite its challenges, Lagos has a lot to offer digital nomads, from its thriving startup scene to its stunning beaches and vibrant nightlife. As a Lagos digital nomad, you’ll find that the city has a unique charm that will keep you engaged and inspired.
Lagos is a city of contrasts, where traditional markets and modern skyscrapers coexist, and where the sounds of Afrobeat music fill the air. As a remote worker, you’ll find that Lagos offers a unique blend of relaxation and productivity, with its beautiful beaches, lush green spaces, and modern coworking facilities. However, it’s essential to be aware of the city’s challenges, such as traffic congestion, power outages, and safety concerns. With the right mindset and preparation, though, Lagos can be an incredible destination for digital nomads.
🏘️ Best Neighborhoods for Digital Nomads
When it comes to choosing a neighborhood in Lagos, there are several options that are popular among digital nomads. Here are three areas that I highly recommend:
- Victoria Island: This upscale neighborhood is known for its modern amenities, beautiful beaches, and vibrant nightlife. Victoria Island is home to many coworking spaces, restaurants, and bars, making it an ideal location for remote workers. Rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Victoria Island can range from ₦200,000 to ₦500,000 (approximately $500 to $1,200 USD) per month.
- Ikoyi: This charming neighborhood is located on the mainland and is known for its tree-lined streets, beautiful parks, and historic landmarks. Ikoyi is a popular area for expats and digital nomads, with many modern amenities and a relaxed atmosphere. Rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Ikoyi can range from ₦150,000 to ₦300,000 (approximately $375 to $750 USD) per month.
- Lekki: This rapidly growing neighborhood is located on the outskirts of Lagos and is known for its modern infrastructure, beautiful beaches, and vibrant nightlife. Lekki is a popular area for digital nomads, with many coworking spaces, restaurants, and bars. Rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Lekki can range from ₦100,000 to ₦250,000 (approximately $250 to $625 USD) per month.
Cost of Living Breakdown
The cost of living in Lagos can be relatively high, especially when it comes to accommodation and transportation. However, with the right budgeting and planning, it’s possible to live comfortably in Lagos as a digital nomad. Here’s a breakdown of the typical costs you can expect to incur:
- Rent: ₦200,000 to ₦500,000 (approximately $500 to $1,200 USD) per month for a one-bedroom apartment in a modern building.
- Food: ₦5,000 to ₦10,000 (approximately $12 to $25 USD) per meal for a mid-range restaurant. Groceries can cost around ₦50,000 to ₦100,000 (approximately $125 to $250 USD) per month.
- Transportation: ₦5,000 to ₦10,000 (approximately $12 to $25 USD) per day for a taxi or ride-hailing service. A monthly transportation pass can cost around ₦50,000 to ₦100,000 (approximately $125 to $250 USD).
- Coworking: ₦20,000 to ₦50,000 (approximately $50 to $125 USD) per month for a shared desk in a modern coworking space.
Internet & Coworking
Lagos has a relatively good internet infrastructure, with many coworking spaces and cafes offering fast and reliable internet. Here are some popular coworking spaces and cafes that I recommend:
- Workstation: A modern coworking space located in Victoria Island, with fast internet speeds and a range of amenities. Membership plans start at ₦20,000 (approximately $50 USD) per month.
- The Coworking Space: A shared office space located in Ikoyi, with fast internet speeds and a range of amenities. Membership plans start at ₦30,000 (approximately $75 USD) per month.
- Cafe Neo: A modern cafe located in Lekki, with fast internet speeds and a range of food and drink options. Internet plans start at ₦5,000 (approximately $12 USD) per month.
Lagos has a growing digital nomad community, with many meetups and events taking place throughout the year. Here are some popular groups and events that I recommend:
- Lagos Digital Nomads: A Facebook group for digital nomads living in Lagos, with over 1,000 members and regular meetups.
- Nomad List Lagos: A community of digital nomads and remote workers, with regular meetups and events.
- Lagos Startup Week: An annual event that brings together startups, investors, and digital nomads from around the world.
Culture & Lifestyle
Lagos has a unique and vibrant culture, with a rich history and a blend of traditional and modern influences. As a digital nomad, you’ll find that the city has a lot to offer, from its stunning beaches to its vibrant nightlife. Here are some insider tips and recommendations:
- Local customs: Lagos is a conservative city, and it’s essential to respect local customs and traditions. Dress modestly, and avoid public displays of affection.
- Food scene: Lagos has a vibrant food scene, with a range of traditional and modern cuisine. Try some of the local dishes, such as jollof rice, suya, and egusi soup.
- Nightlife: Lagos has a thriving nightlife, with many bars, clubs, and lounges. Some popular spots include the Federal Palace Hotel, the Wheatbaker Hotel, and the Club Quilox.
- Dating: Lagos has a vibrant dating scene, with many singles and couples. However, it’s essential to be respectful of local customs and traditions, and to avoid public displays of affection.
As a digital nomad, you’ll need to obtain a visa to enter Nigeria. Here are some essential tips and recommendations:
- Tourist visa: A tourist visa is required for most nationalities, and can be obtained online or through the Nigerian embassy in your home country. The cost of a tourist visa is around $100 to $200 USD, depending on your nationality.
- Digital nomad visa: Nigeria does not currently offer a digital nomad visa, but there are plans to introduce one in the future.
💡 Practical Tips
Here are some practical tips and recommendations for living and working in Lagos as a digital nomad:
- SIM cards: You can purchase a SIM card from any of the major network providers, such as MTN, Glo, or Airtel. The cost of a SIM card is around ₦5,000 to ₦10,000 (approximately $12 to $25 USD).
- Transportation: Lagos has a range of transportation options, including taxis, ride-hailing services, and buses. The cost of transportation can range from ₦5,000 to ₦10,000 (approximately $12 to $25 USD) per day.
- Safety: Lagos can be a challenging city, and it’s essential to take safety precautions. Avoid carrying large amounts of cash, and be mindful of your surroundings, especially at night.
- Weather: Lagos has a tropical climate, with high temperatures and humidity throughout the year. The best time to visit Lagos is during the dry season, from December to February.
