Areas and suburbs in Lagos

The best places to live in Lagos

If you’re moving to Lagos, you’ll find yourself in a vibey, fast-paced metropolis that’s one of the fastest-growing cities in Africa. Lagos is split between the mainland and a cluster of islands, all surrounded by creeks and the Lagos Lagoon, which flows out into the Gulf of Guinea. Bridges link the islands to the mainland, and some creeks have been reclaimed and developed into bustling neighbourhoods.

There are only a few areas in Lagos that provide the level of comfort, accommodation, and convenience you may expect as an expat. Many expats prefer to live on Victoria Island and Lagos Island, while more affordable living options are available on the mainland.

Lagos mainland

Most Lagos residents live on the mainland, which consists of several lively districts, including Ebute Metta, Mushin, Surulere, Agege, Oshodi, Yaba, and Ikeja. Each area offers a distinct local flavour, with a wide range of housing, markets, and entertainment options.

Ikeja

Ikeja, the capital of Lagos State, is one of the most sought-after residential areas on the mainland. Originally designed to house the upper classes during the colonial period, Ikeja still retains much of its exclusivity, especially in the Government Reserved Area (GRA), home to some of Nigeria’s top officials.

You’ll find large, upscale homes here, including detached houses, bungalows, and semi-detached duplexes – ideal for families. Thanks to recent infrastructure improvements and a thriving commercial scene, the neighbourhood’s appeal continues to grow. The Lagos State government has invested significantly into upgrading roads and public amenities, making living and working here easier.

Beyond housing, Ikeja has transformed into a commercial hub, with office complexes and tech hubs springing up. The Ikeja City Mall, one of Nigeria’s largest, offers a mix of international brands, restaurants, and entertainment. You’ll also enjoy a heightened sense of security, with improved policing around key locations like the Police College and Military Cantonment, ensuring peace of mind for you and your family.

Apapa

Located just west of Lagos Island, Apapa is a bustling port area offering more affordable accommodation. Its colonial-era homes and newer apartment blocks are a draw for professionals seeking proximity to Nigeria’s main seaport. The Apapa GRA offers a mix of high-end and middle-class housing, making it suitable for various budgets.

Security in Apapa has improved in recent years, with a greater focus on safeguarding the port and surrounding residential areas. Traffic can be challenging due to the commercial nature of the area, but living here puts you right in the heart of Lagos’s maritime industry.

Surulere

Surulere is a lively neighbourhood perfect for young professionals and socialites looking to experience Lagos on a budget. It offers a pulsing nightlife scene, from classy cocktail bars to bustling street food stalls. Whether you’re catching a play at the iconic National Arts Theatre or grabbing a bite from a local vendor, there’s always something happening in Surulere.

New residential developments, including modern duplexes and gated communities, have made the area even more appealing. With lower rents compared to island living, Surulere is a top choice for those seeking affordability without compromising fun or convenience. Its social scene is complemented by excellent access to essential amenities and transport links, making it a prime spot for anyone wanting to enjoy Lagos to the fullest.

Yaba

If you’re after a trendy, tech-driven vibe, Yaba is the place to be. Known as the heart of Lagos’s booming tech scene, it’s often called 'Yabacon Valley' – a nod to Silicon Valley. Yaba is home to some of Nigeria’s most influential startups and tech incubators. If you're in tech, business, or just love being around innovation, this neighbourhood has plenty to offer.

Yaba is also where Afrobeats pulses through the streets. Its vibrant clubs and bars are alive with music, and upscale restaurants are dotted throughout the neighbourhood. With its proximity to the University of Lagos and Yaba College of Technology, this area naturally attracts students and young professionals. It's a hotspot for anyone looking to experience Lagos’s youthful energy, nightlife, and a touch of its future.

Island living in Lagos

Lagos Island

Lagos Island is the beating heart of the city’s business and administrative scene. This is where you’ll find Nigeria’s central business district, along with the offices of global corporations and financial institutions. The island is connected to the mainland by three major bridges: Eko Bridge, Carter Bridge, and the Third Mainland Bridge.

Although it’s the commercial centre of Lagos, there’s a distinct contrast between Lagos Island's west and east sides. The west is wealthier and more developed, home to shopping malls, clubs, and supermarkets. Meanwhile, the eastern part is more modest but houses Lagos’s main markets, making it a key area for trade and local commerce.

Traffic congestion is an everyday challenge on Lagos Island. Several infrastructure improvements have been made to ease this, including expanding the Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system and introducing modern traffic control technologies. Many locals and expats also use boat transport to move quickly between the islands and the mainland.

Ikoyi

Ikoyi, located just east of Lagos Island, is Lagos's most prestigious residential area. Known for its exclusivity and affluence, Ikoyi is home to some of Nigeria’s wealthiest residents and the largest expat community in the city. Here, you’ll find a mix of colonial-era mansions, luxury condominiums, modern high-rise apartments, and one of Nigeria’s most famous golf courses.

Living in Ikoyi puts you close to some of Lagos's best international schools, golf clubs, and country clubs, making it an attractive choice for expat families. Banana Island, a gated neighbourhood within Ikoyi, is often called a 'billionaire's paradise' and home to Lagos’s most elite residents.

Commercial activity in Ikoyi is mainly concentrated along Awolowo Road, where you’ll find a selection of luxury shops, supermarkets, and pharmacies. This neighbourhood also offers excellent dining options and high-end services, making daily life here both convenient and indulgent.

Although the area generally has better utility infrastructure than other parts of Lagos, road conditions and utility supplies such as electricity and water can still be inconsistent. Recent improvements in the city’s infrastructure, including enhanced power and water systems, have made living in Ikoyi more comfortable, but occasional shortages can still occur.

Victoria Island

Victoria Island (often called VI) is one of the most prestigious areas in Lagos, located just west of Lagos Island. Once surrounded by water, the island has seen a dramatic transformation over the years, with the construction of a land bridge connecting it to the Lekki Peninsula and major roads leading to Epe. VI is both a commercial and residential hub, offering a mix of luxury apartments, high-end offices, and some of Nigeria's most sought-after real estate.

As one of Lagos’s most affluent districts, Victoria Island is home to wealthy Nigerian business leaders, high-level professionals, and many expats. The area is filled with upscale shopping centres, top-tier restaurants, and premium office spaces, making it a key destination for both business and leisure. You’ll find some of the city’s priciest homes here, reflecting the area’s exclusivity.

Once a quiet, residential enclave, Victoria Island is now one of Nigeria’s most important centres of commerce, banking, and corporate activity. It’s also become a major diplomatic hub, with new foreign consulates like the German and Netherlands missions enhancing the island’s international presence. 

Unfortunately, the rapid commercial growth has led to serious congestion, making traffic a frequent challenge. Major infrastructure projects, like the upcoming Fourth Mainland Bridge and the introduction of intelligent transport systems (ITS), are expected to ease traffic woes over time.

Lekki

Lekki lies east of Victoria Island, and it’s fast becoming one of Lagos’s most desirable residential areas. This part of town offers a unique blend of upscale living and affordability, with modern homes, gated communities, and a selection of more accessible housing options. 

It’s a neighbourhood that appeals to both young professionals and families, thanks to its balance of trendy nightlife and a safe, suburban environment. Young professionals are drawn to Lekki’s vibrant social scene, with a growing number of clubs, bars, and restaurants offering some of the best nightlife in Lagos.

Families also find much to love in Lekki. The area is known for its safety, proximity to top international schools, and growing infrastructure, making it ideal for those seeking a more relaxed lifestyle. As property demand continues to rise, property values and rental prices have been climbing steadily, with the neighbourhood becoming a prime spot for real estate investment.