Best areas to live if you work on the Island

Closest, most expensive

Ikoyi, Victoria Island, Oniru, Lekki Phase 1 and Ikate put you within a short drive of most Island offices. Expect high rent, high service charges and, in several streets, genuine flood exposure.

Value with one bridge

Yaba, Gbagada and Surulere give a single crossing and much lower rent, at the cost of traffic on the bridge and older housing stock.

Cheapest, longest

Ajah, Sangotedo and the outer Lekki axis are far cheaper, but the Lekki-Epe corridor can add hours in the rainy season. Time the journey before you commit to a year.

• Test the commute at 6:30am and at 6pm, both directions.
• Ask about flooding on the route, not only at the house.
• Check whether your office hours allow you to travel outside peak.