There is a craze for short-let apartments in Lagos. It is a trend where more and more people, especially young people who are not necessarily business people, are embracing short-let apartments over hotels.
A shortlet apartment is a fully furnished home or apartment rented for short, temporary periods (days to months), offering more space, privacy, and amenities like kitchens/living rooms than hotels, ideal for travelers needing a “home away from home” feel with flexibility for work, family, or tourism.
Over the past few years, Nigeria’s hospitality industry has witnessed a remarkable shift. While traditional hotels once dominated the accommodation market, short-let apartments have rapidly become the preferred choice for travellers, business professionals, and even locals seeking a temporary stay. This shift isn’t just a trend; it’s a response to evolving consumer preferences for more flexible, cost-effective, and homely accommodation options. The short-let apartments used to be the choice of business people who wanted to have their privacy away from the general public. But now, many young people who want to host themselves either for birthday celebrations of their lovers or beloved ones are making use of short-let apartments. People prefer short-let apartments in Lagos over hotels for the home-like comfort, more space, and better value, thanks to amenities like full kitchens and laundry facilities, offering privacy, flexibility for families/teams, and significant cost savings on food and services compared to cramped hotel rooms. They provide a “home away from home” experience with separate living areas, allowing for cooking, relaxing, and working in a private environment, ideal for longer stays or family travel.
There are several reasons why more and more people now prefer short let over Hotels now. One of the first things is: A Home Away from Home: Shortlet apartments are designed to feel like a fully furnished home rather than a temporary room. Travelers often prefer the convenience of having a living room, fully-equipped kitchen, laundry facilities, and separate bedrooms — amenities that most hotels can’t offer.
For business travelers and families staying for extended periods, this homely environment is far more comfortable than living out of a suitcase in a hotel room.
More Space for Less Money: One of the biggest reasons shortlet apartments are rising in popularity is value for money. A spacious two-bedroom shortlet apartment often costs the same or even less than a single hotel room, especially in prime locations like Lekki, Victoria Island, or Ikeja.
For groups, families, or friends traveling together, the ability to share an entire apartment significantly reduces costs, making shortlets the smarter option.
Privacy and Flexibility: Hotels come with constant staff interactions, shared facilities, and strict check-in/check-out times. Shortlet apartments, on the other hand, provide greater privacy and flexibility, allowing guests to manage their time and space as they see fit.
Whether it’s hosting a small meeting, cooking your own meals, or having friends over, shortlets give you the freedom hotels often lack.
Perfect for Extended Stays: If you’re planning to stay in Lagos or other cities for weeks or months, shortlet apartments are the obvious choice. They’re designed for long-term comfort, with amenities like Wi-Fi, cable TV, air conditioning, and fully functional kitchens, making them a cost-effective alternative to expensive hotel bills.
The Rise of Remote Work and Digital Nomads:
The global shift to remote work has fueled the demand for short-term rental spaces that double as living and working environments. Shortlet apartments cater perfectly to this lifestyle, providing a peaceful space with reliable internet, work-friendly furniture, and an overall homey vibe — something most hotel rooms can’t offer.
Local Experience and Convenience: Staying in a shortlet apartment allows travelers to experience Nigeria like a local. Unlike hotels, which are often located in commercial districts, shortlets are usually found in residential neighborhoods, offering a more authentic cultural experience.
More Options Than Ever: The real estate and hospitality sectors are quickly adapting to this demand. Today, travelers can find a variety of shortlet options — from luxury penthouses with ocean views to budget-friendly studio apartments. This wide range of options ensures there’s something for everyone, regardless of budget or style preference.
The rise of short let apartments in Lagos reflects a growing demand for accommodations that offer more than just a place to sleep – they provide a home away from home experience that allows travelers to immerse themselves fully in the vibrant culture and rhythm of the city.
Prices of Shortlet Apartments in Lagos is varies. In some areas on the Island like Victoria Island, Ikoyi and Lekki Phase 1, a decent apartment cost about 550 to 100 dollar per night. While the same space in Ikeja cost less.
In Lekki Phase 1, some houses there have been converted to Shortlet and they charge 200,000 naira in most cases and above per night.
While areas like Banana Island range from 250,000 naira and above per night.
Isaac Abimbade
08155107955
