Overview
Yaba sits right in the heart of Lagos mainland and has earned the nickname "Yabacon Valley" for its concentration of tech startups and hubs. It's home to UNILAG, Yaba College of Technology, and some of Nigeria's biggest tech companies.
Who lives here
Students, tech workers, creatives, and young professionals on a budget. If you're in the tech ecosystem, chances are your office is in or near Yaba.
Rent breakdown
- Self-contained: ₦250k–₦600k/yr
- 2-bedroom flat: ₦600k–₦1.5M/yr
- Mini flat: ₦400k–₦800k/yr
Yaba is one of the most affordable areas this close to the island.
Daily life
The energy in Yaba is unmatched. You're walking distance from tech hubs like CcHub, Andela's old office, and dozens of startups. The food scene is street-level — affordable and diverse. Markets like Tejuosho are right there for shopping.
Best spots
- Sabo: The tech corridor. Walking distance to most startups
- Abule Oja: Close to UNILAG, student-friendly pricing
- Akoka: Quieter residential, good for families
- Herbert Macaulay Way: Commercial strip with easy transport links
Tips for flatmate seekers
Yaba is perfect for flatmate sharing, especially if you're in tech. Many professionals share 2-3 bedroom flats to keep costs low while staying close to work. The community is tight-knit — you'll bump into people you know.