Are you looking for the best places to live in Abuja? Well, of course, you are. Housing is the most essential and vital human need, after food and clothing. It provides security and warmth for people and families in general.
Housing has become a show of class in our society and different choices of houses are associated with different areas.
Abuja, the Federal Capital Territory has become a sight for the bright eyes of politicians and the “money bags” of our society today. This has caused a hike in the price of housing and creating a disparity between the rich, middle and low classes.
Like its bubbling counterpart, Lagos, Abuja has become a centre for infrastructural, technological and societal growth. Development reigns have taken over and the future seems bright for the country’s capital.
It is therefore pertinent to provide you with a list of options on the best areas to buy, build or rent a house. This would ease the confusion that comes with buying and picking a viable and valuable area to have in mind. The different regions” would be grouped into; Expensive and Affordable areas.
Expensive areas to live in Abuja
Before we get into that, a backstory. I grew up in a small town in Kaduna and the standard of living there was comfortable and encouraging. I had gotten used to this lifestyle and travelled to Abuja sometime later.
It was a new experience for me as everything doubled in price. There was an unrealistic standard of living that was almost unacceptable to my young brain (Satchet water twenty naira? How?)
I’m older now and I understand a few things about how the world works regarding price. Below are places you should consider living in Abuja if you would like to level up with the “happening” people in society.
Also See: Cheap flights from Abuja to Lagos
Asokoro
That’s a nice picture, right? Asokoro means “The people of victory”. This place is typified by several politicians and wealthy entities. The presence of grand buildings that competes with each other is plethoric.
Due to the nature of this place, there is a need for all-around 24/7 security. Several key infrastructures such as schools, banks, hospitals, relaxation hubs etc. (You think bars are not key? Think again)
Maitama
Development personified. Those are the best two words I can use to describe Maitama. It is located to the north of Abuja city, and is in a tight contest with Asokoro. Maitama holds to its name a number of exquisite organisations and establishments such as:
- Office of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC)
- Office of National Universities Commission (NUC)
- Office of Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC)
These governmental organisations bring along with them levels of distinction, security, development and housing price hike. Like every other developed area, there are pieces of evidence of tarred roads, a tranquil environment, Hospitals, Schools and Bars (Never forget that).
To put it succinctly, Maitama is the Ikoyi of Abuja.
READ ALSO: Top 10 Places to Visit in Abuja
Jabi
The first sign of an expensive area is the presence of water bodies due to Land Reclamation. Jabi is an elite area that encompasses a few of its self-named infrastructures like:
- Jabi Lake for outings
- Jabi Gardens for occasions
Other necessary establishments therein are; banks, schools, restaurants, hotels etc.
See: Top 15 Restaurants in Abuja.
Gwarimpa
Africa’s Largest single housing estate, Gwarimpa is the largest estate in Abuja, Nigeria and even West Africa. That has opened the area up to potential investors to invest in real estate and make the most of the land.
Gwarimpa happens to be a very cool, residential, family-like area with amenities such as gyms, hospitals, pharmacies, salons and hotels.
READ ALSO: Top 10 Hotels in Gwarinpa, Abuja
Wuse
We have Asokoro, Maitama, and then Wuse. Wuse is an expensive area in Abuja brimming with job opportunities. It perfectly combines business and accommodation. The Wuse market is the biggest market in Abuja.
All these and more such as amusement parks, relaxation centres, malls, hotels, etc. contribute to its status. Wuse is also a good place to stay if you are one for nightlife and clubbing.
Read: Serviced Apartments in Abuja
Affordable areas to live in Abuja
As my mum says, cut your coat according to the yard of material you have. Therefore, when it comes to housing, you should build or buy a house according to your pocket.
You want to think long-term when it comes to housing. Can you maintain the standard of living in that area? Would you be able to expand and look into the building or buy a new house?
Here are the top most affordable places to live in Abuja.
Lokogoma
Development in Lokogoma is rapid and happening. It is mainly a residential area located in Phase 3 of Abuja city. There are a number of housing estates built in Lokogoma and many more are incoming.
It is not far-fetched to say there is a possibility of Lokogoma rising through the ranks in the nearest future. But presently, it is a good choice and investment. For your money’s worth, you will definitely do well with Lokogoma.
Garki
This is among the first places that development cut through in Abuja. It is included among the affordable areas despite the presence of different governmental establishments it hosts.
Establishments include The US embassy, The office of Abuja Municipal Area Council (AMAC), The General post office etc. Garki also houses Public and private schools, hotels, religious institutions, relaxation centres etc.
RELATED: List of Abuja Postal Code: All zip codes in the FCT
Jahi
Just like a relationship where one gains and the other doesn’t lose or gain (commensalism), Jahi enjoys developmental influence from Gwarimpa and Jabi. It sits in the middle of two prominent regions and is primarily a residential area with scanty commercial establishments.
It has the potential to grow massively having close proximity to central areas. Jahi is amassing attention from the well-to-do in Abuja and should be taken advantage of before it rises through the ranks.
Apo
Pictures do tell a thousand words. I can see a developing area that is predominantly residential. I also get a feeling of serenity and peace from that area. Apo is fast developing with few commercial centres to boast of.
If you are looking for a place to raise a family and establish yourself that is affordable, look no further than Apo. It has a decent infrastructural setting and is open to investors, which means an increase in value.
Dawaki
This is among the cheaper areas you can hope to build a rent a house in Abuja. Dawaki is located at the centre. Its advantages include; affordability, security, basic amenities, commercial areas etc.
Dawaki still has a lot of areas that have not been established. It offers a quiet environment suitable for raising children and grooming a family.
Other affordable areas in Abuja
- Life Camp
- Lugbe
- Kubwa
- Kuje
- Karu (Triple k, call them the Kar…)
READ ALSO: Best Areas to Build or Own a House in Lagos
Best places to live in Abuja: In conclusion
Abuja is the country’s capital, and as such, is drawing a lot of international and local recognition. It poses itself as a suitable soil for industrialization and development. These actions will definitely affect prices across all sectors including accommodation.
With that said, there are still areas that are not yet ripe for the taking and are still cheap. There are others that have their name speak for themselves.
Follow my mum’s advice.
