Nigerians considering moving to the UK or those that just recently arrived need to know the cost of living here.
Moving to the UK from Nigeria is an exciting opportunity but it is essential to understand how the cost of living differs between the two countries.
The cost of living in the UK can vary depending on where you live, your lifestyle, and the choices you make.
Here are the major cost of living in the UK Nigerians moving abroad should know about:
1. Housing Costs
Housing is often the largest expense when living in the UK. The cost of renting or buying property can vary significantly based on the region you choose to live in. For example, living in London is far more expensive than living in smaller cities or rural areas.
London: Rent in London is among the highest in the UK. A one-bedroom flat in central London can cost around £1,500 to £2,000 per month, while rent outside central London might range between £1,000 and £1,500.
Other cities: In cities like Manchester, Birmingham, and Glasgow, rent for a one-bedroom flat ranges from £700 to £1,200 per month, depending on the area.
If you are moving to the UK with a family, you should budget for higher rent, as larger properties are more expensive. Be prepared for additional costs like council tax, which depends on the value of the property, and utility bills (electricity, water, and gas).
Understanding the cost of living as a Nigerian in the UK in terms of housing will help you make informed decisions on where to live and how much to budget for accommodation.
Also Read: How to Find a Job in the UK from Nigeria: Strategies and Resources
2. Transportation Costs
Getting around in the UK can also be a significant part of your monthly expenses. Public transport is well-developed, especially in larger cities, but it comes at a cost.
London transport: If you live in London, you will likely rely on the London Underground (Tube) or buses to get around. A monthly travel card in some zones cost more than £100 If you prefer using Uber or taxis, those can add up quickly, as fares are relatively high in comparison to public transport.
Other cities: In cities outside London, bus and tram services are the primary means of public transport. For instance, in Manchester, a monthly bus pass costs around £100. Rail travel is also common, especially for those commuting between cities. Train fares vary depending on the distance and time of travel, with long-distance journeys often being more expensive.
If you plan on driving, you will need to consider the cost of owning a car, including insurance, fuel, road tax, and parking fees. Fuel prices in the UK are generally higher than in Nigeria.
Transportation expenses are a major contributor to the high cost of living of Nigerians in the UK especially if you are commuting daily or traveling frequently.
3. Food and Groceries
Food prices in the UK can be reasonable, depending on your shopping habits. The good news is that there are plenty of budget supermarkets such as Aldi, Lidl, and Asda, where you can find affordable groceries.
Average grocery costs: A typical weekly grocery shop for one person might cost around £50, depending on your preferences and dietary needs. If you prefer shopping at higher-end supermarkets or buying organic products, expect to pay more.
Dining out: Eating out in the UK can be quite expensive, especially in restaurants in city centres. A meal at an inexpensive restaurant will cost around £12–£15, while a three-course meal for two at a mid-range restaurant can cost upwards of £50. Fast food options, such as McDonald’s, are slightly cheaper.
Nigerians who enjoy cooking traditional meals might want to explore local markets or specialty African stores for specific ingredients. While these items can be more expensive than in Nigeria, they are available in many UK cities with diverse communities.
When planning your food budget, keep in mind that food greatly contributes to the cost of living for Nigerians in the UK. Understanding this will help you manage your monthly expenses better.
Also Read: How to Open a UK Bank Account as a Nigerian Immigrant
4. Healthcare Costs
Healthcare in the UK is primarily covered by the National Health Service (NHS), which offers free healthcare services to residents. As an international resident, you may need to pay the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) when applying for your visa. This charge grants you access to NHS services during your stay.
Immigration Health Surcharge: This fee covers most medical treatments, including doctor visits and hospital stays, but you may need to pay for dental care, eye tests, and prescriptions.
Prescription costs: If you need prescription medication, you will pay standard costs although certain groups, such as children and the elderly, may be exempt from paying.
While the NHS covers most essential healthcare services, some people choose to purchase private health insurance for quicker access to specialists or treatments not covered by the NHS. This can add to your monthly expenses, depending on the type of coverage you select.
5. Utility Bills
In addition to rent, you will also need to budget for utilities like electricity, gas, water, and internet. Utility costs vary depending on where you live and your usage, but here is a general breakdown:
Electricity and gas: These two are usually bundled together, with the average household bill ranging between £100 and £150 per month.
Water: Water bills are typically between £30 and £40 per month.
Internet: According to uswitchcom, the average cost of broadband in the UK is £26.90 per month, depending on the provider and package.
Keep in mind that some rental properties may include certain utilities in the rent, so it is worth clarifying with your landlord before signing a lease.
6. Entertainment and Leisure
Entertainment costs can vary widely, depending on your lifestyle. If you enjoy going to the movies, expect to pay around £10–£15 for a ticket. The average cost of gym memberships in the UK is £47.24 a month, depending on the location and type of gym.
Many Nigerians in the UK find joy in exploring the vibrant culture and activities, such as visiting museums, parks, and historical landmarks, many of which are free or have discounted entry fees.
Also Read: Step-by-Step Guide to Applying for a UK Student Visa
Conclusion
Understanding the cost of living in the UK Nigerians should prepare for is essential to managing your finances and living comfortably. Housing, transportation, food, healthcare, and utility bills make up the bulk of your expenses.
By budgeting wisely and planning ahead, you can enjoy life in the UK without feeling overwhelmed by the cost of living.
Whether you’re planning to move to the UK for work, studies, or to join family, knowing what to expect financially will help you make informed decisions and adapt to life in a new country.
