🇳🇬 Cost of Living in Calabar - Prices & Budget Guide
Last updated: March 2026
Economic Indicators
GDP per Capita (PPP)$9,087 (2024)
Inflation Rate33.2% (2024)
Health Spend per Capita$67 (2023)
Out-of-Pocket Health Spend71.9% (2023)
Education Spend (% GDP)0.3% (2023)
Source: World Bank Open Data
To live in or visit Calabar, you can expect to spend around $20-50 USD per day as a backpacker, $50-100 USD per day as a mid-range traveler, and $100-200 USD per day for a more comfortable experience.
Quick Facts
Cost LevelAffordable
Daily Budget (Backpacker)$20-50 USD
Daily Budget (Mid-Range)$50-100 USD
Daily Budget (Comfort)$100-200 USD
CurrencyNGN
Tipping Customnot expected
How Expensive Is Calabar?
Calabar, a city located in the southeastern part of Nigeria, is considered an affordable destination compared to other major cities in Africa. The cost of living in Calabar is relatively low, making it an attractive option for travelers and expats. Compared to its neighboring cities, Calabar has a lower cost of living, with affordable accommodation options, food, and transportation. However, prices can vary depending on the location, with the city center tend to be more expensive than the outskirts.
The cost of living in Calabar is also influenced by the local economy, with the city being a major hub for trade and commerce in the region. The city's economy is driven by industries such as manufacturing, agriculture, and tourism, which provides a range of employment opportunities for locals and expats alike. Overall, Calabar offers a great balance of affordability and quality of life, making it an excellent choice for those looking to experience the best of Nigerian culture without breaking the bank.
Accommodation Prices
Type
Price Range (USD/night)
Notes
Hostel/Budget
$10-20
Basic amenities, shared rooms
Mid-Range Hotel
$30-60
Private rooms, air conditioning, TV
Luxury/Resort
$80-150
High-end amenities, pool, gym
Apartment Rent (monthly)
$100-300
City center, 1-2 bedrooms, furnished
Food & Dining Prices
Meal Type
Price Range (USD)
Street Food / Local Eatery
$2-5
Casual Restaurant
$5-10
Mid-Range Restaurant (2 people)
$15-30
Fine Dining
$30-50
Beer (local)
$2-5
Coffee
$1-3
Water (1.5L bottle)
$1-2
Transport Costs
Transport
Cost (USD)
Local bus/metro ride
$0.50-1
Taxi (per km)
$1-2
Domestic flight
$50-100
Fuel (per liter)
$0.50-1
Monthly Budget Breakdown
Category
Budget ($)
Mid-Range ($)
Comfortable ($)
Rent
100-200
200-400
400-600
Food
150-300
300-500
500-800
Transport
50-100
100-200
200-300
Utilities
50-100
100-200
200-300
Entertainment
100-200
200-400
400-600
Total
500-1000
1000-2000
2000-3500
Money-Saving Tips
Consider staying in a hostel or guesthouse instead of a hotel to save on accommodation costs.
Eat at local eateries or street food stalls to experience authentic Nigerian cuisine at a lower cost.
Use public transportation or walk/bike whenever possible to save on transport costs.
Shop at local markets or supermarkets for groceries and other essentials instead of relying on convenience stores or tourist-oriented shops.
Avoid exchanging money at airports or hotels, as the rates tend to be unfavorable - instead, use ATMs or local banks to withdraw cash.