For many Nigerians, monthly income barely provides enough money to cover basic necessities, forcing households to constantly juggle expenses such as food, rent, transport, and utilities.
Spending habits reveal the pressures families face as they balance survival needs with social, cultural, and personal commitments.
Based on thousands of validated survey responses analysed in Risevest’s Cost of Living Report 2025, here are the top 10 areas where Nigerians allocate their monthly income, ranked by median spending.
10. Entertainment – ₦15,321
Entertainment is the lowest on the spending list, with households spending a median of ₦15,321 monthly on streaming subscriptions, movies, gaming, and leisure activities. This category represents discretionary spending and often varies by income level, lifestyle, and access to entertainment options.
9. Clothing – ₦23,753
Nigerians spend a median of ₦23,753 monthly on clothing, footwear, and accessories. This reflects the need to replace worn items, adapt to seasons, and maintain personal and professional appearances, especially in workplaces and social settings.
8. Religion and Family Support – ₦29,160
Religious contributions and family obligations account for a median monthly spending of ₦29,160. This includes tithes, donations, and financial support for extended family members, highlighting the cultural importance of religion and communal responsibility in Nigeria.
7. Healthcare – ₦36,437
Healthcare expenses average ₦36,437 monthly, covering consultations, drugs, tests, and insurance. Despite improvements in health insurance coverage, fewer than 10% of Nigerians are enrolled in health plans, forcing most families to pay medical bills out of pocket. Unexpected health costs often strain household budgets.
6. Childcare – ₦41,139
Childcare costs, including daycare, nannies, and after-school services, stand at a median of ₦41,139 per month. This reflects how working parents balance professional responsibilities with ensuring proper care and supervision for their children.
5. Utility Bills – ₦45,038
Households spend a median of ₦45,038 monthly on utilities such as electricity, cooking gas, water, and waste disposal. These routine expenses vary depending on household size, location, and consumption patterns.
4. Transportation – ₦52,014
Transportation costs average ₦52,014 per month, covering public transport fares, ride-hailing services, fuel, and intercity travel. Rising rent has pushed many households to live farther from workplaces, increasing commuting distances and transport expenses.
3. Education – ₦53,157
Education ranks third, with households spending a median of ₦53,157 monthly on school fees, tuition, books, and learning materials. Rising private school fees and additional academic costs continue to influence how families prioritise education spending.
2. Rent – ₦75,000
Rent is the second-largest monthly expense, with a median of ₦75,000. Although rent is typically paid annually in Nigeria, this figure represents an averaged monthly cost. Nigeria faces a massive housing deficit estimated at between 14.9 million and over 20 million units, driving rent increases, especially in urban areas.
1. Food – ₦104,118
Food is the biggest expense for Nigerian households, with a median monthly spending of ₦104,118 on groceries, restaurant meals, and daily consumables. Household size, location, and dietary preferences significantly influence food spending, making it the largest share of most family budgets.
