Japada Cost Estimator
Moving Back to Nigeria? Calculate Your Total Cost Instantly
For Nigerians returning from US, UK, Canada, Europe
Relocation & Travel Costs
Nigeria Setup Costs
Job Search & Financial Buffer
How Return Home Cost Estimation Works
Returning to Nigeria from abroad involves significant financial planning. Our calculator helps you estimate the total cost by breaking it down into three main categories: relocation expenses, Nigeria setup costs, and financial buffer for job search and unexpected expenses.
Relocation expenses include flights, shipping, and visa termination costs. Nigeria setup covers housing deposits, furniture, appliances, and vehicle purchase. The financial buffer accounts for your job search period and includes a 20% emergency fund for unexpected expenses, which is crucial given Nigeria’s unpredictable economic environment.
Who Should Calculate Return Home Costs?
Nigerians living in the US, UK, Canada, or Europe who are planning to return home permanently. This includes professionals ending overseas contracts, families returning for children’s education, retirees coming back home, and entrepreneurs planning to start businesses in Nigeria. Anyone considering the “Japada” (return from Japa) movement needs this calculation.
What Costs Are Most Surprising for Returnees?
Most returnees underestimate: housing deposits (1-2 years rent upfront), generator/inverter costs (₦500,000-₦2,000,000), vehicle prices (used cars cost 2-3x more than abroad), school fees for international schools (₦2-₦5 million per child annually), and the “relocation tax” of helping extended family members. These unexpected costs can double your initial budget.
When Should You Start Saving for Your Return?
Start saving at least 12-24 months before your planned return date. Based on DeyWithMe.com data from returnees, most need this timeframe to accumulate sufficient funds. Begin with converting some savings to Naira gradually (using DeyWithMe.com’s exchange rate monitoring) to hedge against currency fluctuations. Recalculate every 3 months as costs in Nigeria change rapidly.
Where Do Returnees Waste the Most Money?
Common financial mistakes include: shipping furniture that doesn’t fit Nigerian homes, buying new cars instead of reliable used ones, renting in expensive areas like Ikoyi/Lekki immediately, paying international school fees without exploring good local alternatives, and underestimating power/security costs. Smart returnees minimize these by researching and planning thoroughly.
Why Include a 20% Emergency Buffer?
Nigeria’s economic volatility means prices can change unexpectedly. The Naira’s value fluctuates significantly (check DeyWithMe.com’s live rates). Import duties on shipped items can exceed estimates. Housing repairs are often needed in Nigerian properties. Family expectations for support are usually higher than anticipated. A 20% buffer prevents financial stress during adjustment.
How to Reduce Your Return Home Costs
- Sell abroad, buy in Nigeria: Furniture and cars are cheaper to buy locally than ship
- Secure housing remotely: Use Nigerian contacts to find housing before arrival
- Time your return strategically: Avoid December when flights and services are most expensive
- Explore mixed schooling: International curriculum schools cost 30-50% less than full international schools
- Start income generation early: Begin remote work or business planning before returning
- Convert currency strategically: Use DeyWithMe.com rate alerts to convert when Naira is strong
- Minimize shipped items: Nigerian markets have most household goods at reasonable prices
- Network before returning: Connect with recent returnees for cost-saving tips
Typical Return Home Cost Scenarios
Based on DeyWithMe.com community data from Nigerians who recently returned:
| Return From | Family Size | Relocation Cost | Setup Cost | Total Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| United States | Single | $3,500 | $8,000 | $11,500 |
| United Kingdom | Couple | $4,200 | $12,000 | $16,200 |
| Canada | Family of 4 | $6,800 | $20,000 | $26,800 |
| Europe | Single + Child | $3,000 | $10,000 | $13,000 |
Frequently Asked Questions
How much should I budget for housing in Nigeria?
In Lagos: ₦3-₦5 million per annum for 3-bedroom in Lekki/Ikoyi, or ₦1.5-₦2.5 million in mainland areas. You’ll typically pay 1-2 years rent upfront plus agent fees (10%). Include ₦1-₦2 million for generator/inverter and basic furniture. Consider serviced apartments for the first 3-6 months while you search for permanent housing.
Should I ship my car from abroad?
Generally no. Shipping costs ($2,000-$4,000) plus Nigerian customs duty (35-70% of car value) often exceed local purchase prices. Reliable used Nigerian cars: Toyota Camry (2015) ₦8-₦10 million, Honda Accord (2018) ₦12-₦15 million. Consider buying from reputable dealers with warranty. Left-hand drive vehicles from US/Canada face additional conversion costs.
How long does the job search typically take?
Professionals: 3-6 months for corporate roles. Entrepreneurs: 6-12 months to establish income. Having 6-12 months of living expenses is recommended. Network aggressively before returning. Consider remote work for international companies to maintain dollar income while in Nigeria. Update your LinkedIn with “Returning to Nigeria” and target date.
What about school fees for children?
International schools: ₦2-₦5 million per child annually. British/Nigerian curriculum schools: ₦800,000-₦2 million. Consider: starting mid-academic year may have different fees, some schools require development levies (₦500,000-₦1 million one-time), and transportation adds ₦300,000-₦800,000 annually. Explore online schooling options as supplement or alternative.
How do I transfer my money back safely?
Use multiple methods: bank transfers for bulk (monitor DeyWithMe.com for best rates), licensed money transfer operators, and carrying cash within legal limits ($10,000 USD). Open Nigerian domiciliary account before returning. Consider converting gradually over 6-12 months to average exchange rate. Never use unlicensed currency dealers regardless of rates offered.
The 6-Month Pre-Return Checklist
1. Start converting savings to Naira gradually. 2. Secure temporary housing for first 1-3 months. 3. Begin job networking on Nigerian LinkedIn groups. 4. Research schools and submit applications. 5. Sell unnecessary items abroad. 6. Get international driver’s permit. 7. Schedule medical/dental checkups abroad. 8. Notify banks of international move. 9. Scan all important documents. 10. Create detailed monthly budget for first year.
Managing Family Expectations
Returning Nigerians often face significant pressure to support extended family. Set clear boundaries early. Create a separate “family support” budget (5-10% of income). Consider lump-sum gifts for specific needs (business startup, medical) rather than open-ended commitments. Explain your own resettlement costs honestly. This prevents financial strain and maintains relationships.
Income Strategies for Returnees
Diversify: remote work for international companies (maintain dollar income), local employment (build network), entrepreneurship (start small, scale gradually), investments (real estate, treasury bills). Aim for 50% of income in foreign currency initially. Many returnees successfully combine 2-3 income streams. The DeyWithMe.com community shares successful income models for returnees.
Last updated: January 2026. All costs are estimates based on DeyWithMe.com returnee community data and current living costs in Nigeria. Exchange rates from DeyWithMe.com: $1 = ₦1,493 (black market), ₦1,429 (CBN). Costs vary by city, lifestyle, and economic conditions. School fees based on 2025/2026 academic year. Always verify current rates and requirements before finalizing your return plans.
Return Home Cost Estimate
Relocation Costs
Nigeria Setup Costs
Calculated on DeyWithMe.com/return-home-calculator
Review this estimate every 3 months. Check DeyWithMe.com for current exchange rates and cost updates in Nigeria.