The National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) year is a life-changing experience, but it also comes with financial challenges — especially if you’re posted to a high-cost state. For many Prospective Corps Members (PCMs), saving money during service is a priority. If you’re planning ahead for NYSC 2025, this guide will show you the best cities in Nigeria to save money while serving, based on affordability, cost of living, accommodation, transportation, feeding, and earning potential.
What Makes a City “Budget-Friendly” for NYSC?
To determine the best cities for saving money during NYSC, we considered:
- Low cost of living
- Affordable housing
- Inexpensive transportation
- Availability of PPA (Place of Primary Assignment) support
- Safety and good road infrastructure
- Opportunities for part-time work or business
Top 10 Nigerian Cities to Save Money During NYSC 2025
1. Ilorin (Kwara State)
- Why it’s affordable: Low cost of housing, cheap food, and minimal transport costs.
- Cost of a room: ₦20,000–₦30,000/month
- Extra tip: Many PPAs offer free accommodation in Ilorin.
2. Minna (Niger State)
- Why it’s affordable: Calm, safe, and generally low-cost lifestyle.
- Cost of a room: ₦15,000–₦25,000/month
- Extra tip: Local markets offer fresh food at very low prices.
3. Makurdi (Benue State)
- Why it’s affordable: Benue is known as the “Food Basket of the Nation.”
- Cost of a room: ₦10,000–₦20,000/month
- Extra tip: Corps members often enjoy free accommodation and stipends from schools and ministries.
4. Lokoja (Kogi State)
- Why it’s affordable: Proximity to Abuja with lower rent and feeding costs.
- Cost of a room: ₦15,000–₦25,000/month
- Extra tip: Transportation is very cheap within town; many areas are walkable.
5. Ado-Ekiti (Ekiti State)
- Why it’s affordable: Small town, low rent, and steady power supply in many areas.
- Cost of a room: ₦10,000–₦20,000/month
- Extra tip: Favorable PPA support in schools and local government offices.
6. Bauchi (Bauchi State)
- Why it’s affordable: Low demand for housing makes accommodation very cheap.
- Cost of a room: ₦10,000–₦15,000/month
- Extra tip: Extra income can be made teaching or offering ICT services.
7. Osogbo (Osun State)
- Why it’s affordable: Cheap cost of living and decent amenities for corps members.
- Cost of a room: ₦15,000–₦25,000/month
- Extra tip: Some PPAs offer free lodging and feeding.
8. Uyo (Akwa Ibom State)
- Why it’s affordable: Peaceful and budget-friendly, with supportive communities.
- Cost of a room: ₦20,000–₦30,000/month
- Extra tip: Some corps members receive state allowance in addition to federal stipends.
9. Jalingo (Taraba State)
- Why it’s affordable: Very low housing cost and low competition for job opportunities.
- Cost of a room: ₦10,000–₦20,000/month
- Extra tip: Livelihood costs are low and food is in abundance.
10. Ila-Orangun (Osun State – rural setting)
- Why it’s affordable: Rural towns in Osun offer ultra-low living costs.
- Cost of a room: ₦5,000–₦10,000/month
- Extra tip: Great for saving and focusing on side projects or digital skills.
States to Avoid If You're Trying to Save
While these cities offer opportunities, it’s wise to avoid high-cost states like Lagos, Abuja (FCT), Rivers, and Delta if your goal is saving money. These locations offer vibrant experiences but can quickly drain your allowance due to:
- High rent (₦50,000–₦150,000/month)
- Expensive transport
- General inflation and urban lifestyle costs
Pro Tips for Saving Money During NYSC
- Live close to your PPA to avoid daily transport costs.
- Cook your meals instead of eating out.
- Find shared accommodation with fellow corps members.
- Take on remote or freelance jobs (writing, design, tutoring).
- Minimize weekend trips and social expenses.
- Track your spending with a monthly budget.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: What is the average NYSC allowance in 2025?
A: The federal allowance is ₦33,000 per month, but some states offer additional stipends.
Q2: Can I request a posting to a cheaper city?
A: No, postings are randomly assigned, but you can redeploy after camp on health or marital grounds.
Q3: What’s the cheapest city to live in during NYSC?
A: Cities like Makurdi, Lokoja, and Jalingo are among the cheapest for corps members.
Q4: Can corps members do side hustles?
A: Yes! Many corps members teach, run online businesses, or freelance in tech, writing, and fashion.
Conclusion
Saving money during your NYSC year isn’t just possible — it’s smart. Choosing or accepting a posting in a low-cost city can help you build a financial foundation, avoid debt, and even start your own hustle. Whether you’re headed to Ilorin, Makurdi, or Osogbo, one thing is clear: NYSC in 2025 can be both meaningful and financially rewarding — if you plan well.
