As Lagos develops, more people are moving in for work and greener pastures. This has dramatically changed the way renting goes, unlike before where we had social amenities and lifestyle as a big factor in choosing where to live.
There isn’t one “best” place for young professionals to rent in Lagos. The right area depends on your work, budget, lifestyle, and how much traffic you’re willing to deal with. What really matters is choosing a place that fits your reality, not just following trends or what people say is popular.
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People, especially young professionals, are no longer choosing locations based on lifestyle or proximity to “where things are happening.” Instead, the focus has shifted to balance. People want places that are affordable enough to live in, safe enough to feel comfortable, close enough to work to reduce daily commute stress, and lively enough to still enjoy life. Some people prefer living close to their offices to avoid long commutes, while others don’t mind travelling a bit in exchange for more space or lower rent.
Long commutes, rising rent, unstable buildings, cost of living and quality of life have forced many renters to think more strategically. Today the question young professionals are asking is: How long will I spend in traffic? Can I afford this rent without living paycheck to paycheck? Is the area secure? Will I enjoy living here after work hours?
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These questions are shaping where people rent, and certain Lagos neighbourhoods keep coming up again and again. Below are some of the top areas young professionals are choosing, and the practical reasons behind those choices.
Gbagada
Gbagada sits right between the Mainland and the Island, making it a top choice for young professionals who want the best of both worlds. It is perfect for people working in Yaba, Ikeja, or parts of the Island but who don’t want to pay Island level rents. The area is mostly calm and residential, with gated estates and quiet streets that give a sense of safety, though, like anywhere in Lagos, it pays to stay aware when you’re out and about. Getting around is fairly straightforward thanks to the Third Mainland Bridge, Ikorodu Road, and other nearby routes, even if peak-hour traffic is part of daily life.
Life in Gbagada is surprisingly convenient without feeling busy or overwhelming. You’ll find restaurants, gyms, lounges, and small malls scattered across the neighbourhood, enough to meet every day needs and weekend plans. Rent here tends to be mid-range, so it is accessible for early to mid-career professionals looking for value without sacrificing comfort. Many choose Gbagada because it hits that sweet spot: easy access to work, a quieter environment to unwind, and a sense of community where neighbours actually know each other. Verified apartments, like those listed on Krent, make moving in even easier, with safer inspections and bookings compared to relying on random agents. All in all, Gbagada manages to feel both connected and relaxed, a rare combo in Lagos.
Ilupeju
Ilupeju sits in the heart of Lagos Mainland, making it a convenient choice for professionals who want central access without the chaos of major commercial hubs. Its location provides easy links to Ikeja, Surulere, Oshodi, and even parts of the Island, which makes commuting manageable for people with hybrid or office-based schedules. The neighbourhood is a mix of residential streets and light commercial activity, giving it a quiet, settled living style while still being connected to everyday conveniences. Many young professionals are drawn to Ilupeju because it balances practicality with comfort.
Safety in Ilupeju is generally higher within gated estates and well-planned streets, though open areas require caution. The area has decent infrastructure, with maintained roads and functional local amenities, which adds to its appeal. Lifestyle in Ilupeju leans toward being practical rather than flashy, there are good restaurants, markets, and a few malls nearby, but it’s not known for nightlife or heavy social scenes. Rent is usually budget-friendly to mid-range, making it attractive to those who want value for money. Many young professionals choose Ilupeju because it offers affordability and convenience.
Magodo
Magodo is a popular choice for professionals who want structure, safety, and a peaceful living environment. The area is largely estate-focused, within both Magodo Phase 1 and Magodo Phase 2 offering gated communities and streets that provide security and comfort. It appeals especially to those working in Ikeja, Ojodu, or nearby business districts, as it allows residents to unwind in a calm neighborhood after busy workdays without feeling disconnected from the city.
Commuting from Magodo is fairly straightforward, with easy access to the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway, CMD Road, and other major routes, although peak-hour traffic can still be a challenge. Lifestyle here is calm and family-oriented rather than fast-paced, but there are plenty of conveniences nearby, including malls, gyms, supermarkets, and restaurants in surrounding areas like Omole and Ikeja. Rent in Magodo generally falls in the mid-range to premium bracket, reflecting the comfort, security, and quality of housing that the estates provide. Many young professionals choose Magodo because it offers long-term convenience, a quiet environment, and a true sense of community, making it ideal for those looking to balance work, leisure, and safety.
Ajah
Ajah has become a popular choice for young professionals who work on the Island but can’t keep up with the very high rents in Lekki Phase 1 or Victoria Island. Many people are willing to deal with a longer commute just to get better rent prices and newer apartments. Being along the Lekki-Epe corridor means residents can still access Island offices, malls, and hangout spots, while enjoying more space and less pressure than areas closer to VI.
Safety in Ajah depends on where you stay. Gated estates and well-planned communities are generally safe and well maintained, but some older or open areas require extra caution. Traffic on the Lekki-Epe Expressway is something to expect, especially during rush hours, so timing your movement is very important.
Ajah’s lifestyle is lively and still growing. There are beaches, malls, gyms, restaurants, and plenty of places to relax and socialize, especially for young people. At the same time, there are quieter parts of Ajah where you can rest after a long day. Rent in Ajah is mostly affordable to mid-range, which makes it a good option for early- to mid-career professionals who want comfort without breaking the bank. Many people choose Ajah because it offers modern apartments, better value for money, and a decent lifestyle.
Yaba
Yaba has emerged as a hub for young professionals, particularly those in tech, media, and the creative industry. Its proximity to universities, tech hubs, startups, and business districts makes it ideal for people who want to live close to work, innovation clusters, and networking opportunities. The area has a lively, youthful vibe, attracting early- to mid-career professionals who value being at the centre of activity. Its location also offers convenient links to major roads like the Third Mainland Bridge and Ikorodu Road, making access to other parts of Lagos manageable, though peak-hour traffic is a reality.
Safety in Yaba varies by neighbourhood, with some estates and well-planned streets offering their own security. However, Yaba is still a place to exercise great caution when going out or commuting. Lifestyle in the area is fun, lively, energetic and dynamic, with co-working spaces, cafes, gyms, and social hangouts scattered all around. Rent can seem like budget friendly to mid-range to premium bracket depending on who you are and your financial standing, although it suits young professionals looking for affordability without sacrificing convenience or accessibility. Many choose Yaba for its community feel, short commutes, and the opportunity to live near workplaces, tech hubs, and creative networks. It is an ideal spot for remote workers
Surulere
Surulere is a favourite for professionals who want a central location with strong cultural and social character. Surulere appeal lies in being well-connected across the Mainland while offering easier access to multiple parts of Lagos without the high costs or intensity of Island living. The area attracts young professionals who appreciate a neighbourhood with history, community spirit, and a balance between residential calm and urban activity. It gives it resident a good sense of belonging.
Safety in Surulere is generally good, though, as in any place in Lagos and those particularly characterised with nightlife and urban living, it is important to remain street smart and vigilant. The area benefits from easy access to major roads, which connects residents to Ikeja, Yaba, and the Island, commuting is manageable for office-based or hybrid workers. Lifestyle in Surulere is lively and vibrant, with restaurants, gyms, cinemas, and social spots that allow for premium nightlife and enjoyment. Rent tends to fall in the mid-range, offering good value for young professionals who want a neighbourhood that is both accessible and active without becoming overwhelmed.
Ikeja
Ikeja is the capital of Lagos state. It is one of Lagos’s most popular neighbourhoods for young professionals, and for good reason. It is a major business and commercial hub, home to corporate offices, tech companies, government institutions, and other professional workplaces. Living here means you can stay close to your office, cut down on long commutes, and still enjoy the comforts of city life. The mix of residential estates, busy streets, and commercial areas gives Ikeja a balance between convenience and comfort, making it attractive to people who want city living without the chaos of Victoria Island or Lekki.
Safety in Ikeja is generally better in gated estates and planned neighbourhoods like the GRA, where security is more reliable. That said, street sense and caution is still important in busier or older parts of the area. Commuting is fairly easy, thanks to good access to major roads, public transport, and even the airport. For professionals who travel often or need quick connections across the city, Ikeja is a practical choice.
Lifestyle in Ikeja is lively but manageable. You’ll find malls, gyms, restaurants, nightlife spots, and all the essential services you need within easy reach. There’s always something happening, but it’s not overwhelming, and there are quieter areas where you can relax after a long day.
Rent in Ikeja ranges from mid-range to premium bracket, depending on the estate, location, and facilities. Many young professionals are drawn here because it combines accessibility, career opportunities, and established buildings. Whether you’re just starting your career or have been working for a few years, Ikeja is a practical, comfortable, and vibrant place to live. With good planning and the right choice of estate, it is possible to enjoy a safe, modern, and convenient lifestyle while staying connected to everything the city has to offer.
Conclusion
Every neighbourhood has its pros and cons, so understanding the area, checking security, and knowing the costs involved is key. With the right information and proper verification, renting in Lagos doesn’t have to be stressful. Platforms like Krent make the process easier. You can browse verified apartments, book inspections, and see accurate listings without worrying about scams or unreliable agents.
Ultimately, the best rental choice is one that balances your needs, budget, and lifestyle. Take time to research, plan, and verify before signing anything. That way, you can enjoy your home without unnecessary stress or surprises, whether you choose a lively neighbourhood close to work or a quieter area a bit further out.
Frequently Asked Questions
(1)What areas in Lagos are most popular with young professionals?
Areas like Yaba, Gbagada, Ikeja, Surulere, Ajah, Magodo, and Ilupeju are consistently popular due to accessibility, affordability, and lifestyle balance.
(2) Are these areas affordable for first-time renters?
Many of them offer budget-friendly to mid-range options, especially outside premium estates and serviced apartments.
(3) What should young professionals consider before choosing where to live in Lagos?
Commute time, safety, budget, lifestyle needs, and proximity to work should all be carefully considered.
(4) How can I find verified rentals in these popular Lagos neighbourhoods?
Using platforms like Krent allows you to browse verified listings, book inspections, and reduce the risk of scams or agent-related issues.
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