Are you planning to study at Federal Polytechnic Bauchi (FPTB) and wondering how much it will cost to live comfortably as a student in 2025? Whether you're a fresher, direct entry student, or even an ND/HND aspirant, understanding the cost of living in Bauchi is essential to planning your finances.
This article breaks down the typical monthly expenses of an average FPTB student, including accommodation, feeding, transportation, study materials, and more.
🏠 1. Accommodation Cost in Bauchi (FPTB Areas)
The cost of housing depends on your location and whether you live alone or with roommates. Most FPTB students live in these areas:
- Gwallameji – Closest to the school, very popular
- Yelwa – Slightly farther but more developed
- Federal Low-Cost – Affordable for senior students
Room Rates (2025):
- Single Room (Face-me-I-face-you): ₦50,000–₦80,000/year
- Self-Contain Apartment: ₦100,000–₦150,000/year
- Shared Apartment (2–3 persons): ₦30,000–₦60,000/person/year
Monthly Rent Breakdown: ₦3,000 – ₦12,500
Tip: Most landlords request one year upfront. Consider finding a roommate to cut costs.
🍲 2. Feeding and Food Expenses
Feeding is one of the most flexible expenses. You can choose to cook or eat out.
Average Prices of Common Food Items:
- Bag of rice (25kg): ₦22,000
- 1 Derica of beans: ₦800
- 5kg chicken: ₦9,000
- 1 loaf of bread: ₦1000
- Plate of food at buka: ₦800 – ₦1,500
Monthly Feeding Estimate:
- Cooking students: ₦30,000 – ₦40,000
- Eating out often: ₦40,000 – ₦50,000
Tip: Cooking in bulk and buying from Gwallameji Mini Market saves money long-term.
3. Transportation
Most students move around using keke napep (tricycles) or bike taxis. If you live close to the campus (Gwallameji), you might not need daily transport.
Daily Transport Costs:
- Yelwa to FPTB: ₦100 – ₦150 one-way
- Gwallameji to FPTB: ₦100 – ₦150
- Campus shuttle (if available): ₦100 – ₦150
Monthly Transport Estimate: ₦2,000 – ₦5,000 (depends on distance and frequency)
📚 4. Study Materials and School Requirements
These include textbooks, handouts, notebooks, internet data, and departmental fees.
Estimated Monthly Expenses:
- Departmental/Faculty fees: ₦1,000 – ₦5,000 (per semester)
- Textbooks and handouts: ₦2,000 – ₦10,000/semester
- Data Subscription (MTN/Glo): ₦3,000 – ₦5,000/month
Monthly Academic Expenses: ₦2,000 – ₦4,000
Tip: Use the school library and share books with classmates to save money.
🎮 5. Entertainment and Social Life
Social life in Bauchi is affordable. Students usually enjoy:
- Viewing centers (football): ₦100 – ₦200/match
- Game centers: ₦200/hour
- Shawarma/suya night hangouts: ₦500 – ₦2,000
- Clubbing (occasional): ₦3,000+
Estimated Monthly Entertainment: ₦2,000 – ₦6,000
📱 6. Mobile and Internet Expenses
Mobile internet is essential for assignments, research, and streaming. Most students use:
- MTN 3.5GB weekly plan: ₦1,200
- Glo 10GB monthly plan: ₦2,500
Average Monthly Data Spend: ₦3,000 – ₦5,000
Tip: Consider using Wi-Fi in school departments if available.
🧼 7. Miscellaneous Expenses
These include laundry, airtime, toiletries, medicals, and unexpected needs.
- Laundry (per load): ₦500 – ₦1,000
- Toiletries: ₦2,000/month
- Haircut: ₦500 – ₦1,000
- First aid/medication: ₦1,000 – ₦2,000
Total Miscellaneous Estimate: ₦3,000 – ₦5,000/month
🧮 Summary of Monthly Living Cost for an FPTB Student (2025)
| Expense | Estimated Cost (₦) |
|---|---|
| Accommodation | ₦3,000 – ₦12,500 |
| Feeding | ₦20,000 – ₦45,000 |
| Transportation | ₦2,000 – ₦5,000 |
| Study Materials | ₦2,000 – ₦4,000 |
| Entertainment | ₦2,000 – ₦6,000 |
| Data and Mobile | ₦3,000 – ₦5,000 |
| Miscellaneous | ₦3,000 – ₦5,000 |
Total Monthly Estimate: ₦35,000 – ₦80,000 (depending on your lifestyle)
🎓 Final Advice
Living in Bauchi as an FPTB student is relatively affordable compared to other Nigerian cities. With careful planning and budgeting, students can comfortably live, eat, study, and enjoy campus life without overspending.
Budget Tip: Always set aside emergency funds and avoid lifestyle pressure. Bauchi offers a lot — you just need to be smart with your spending.
📚 References
- Interviews with 15 current FPTB students, May 2025
- FPTB Student Handbook (2024/2025 Edition)
- Federal Polytechnic Bauchi Official Website
- Local Bauchi Market Survey – March 2025
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