7 Best Cities to Relocate to in the US as a Nigerian

Relocating to the United States, US as a Nigerian can be an exciting and life-changing experience. However, choosing the right city to relocate to is crucial, as it can greatly affect your quality of life and opportunities. 

From career opportunities to quality of life, the choice of city plays a pivotal role in shaping your American experience as a Nigerian dreaming of a new life in the US. In this comprehensive guide, there is a list of some best cities to relocate to in the US as a Nigerian. Each city on our list offers a unique blend of diverse communities, thriving job markets, and a welcoming atmosphere, making them excellent choices for Nigerian immigrants seeking a fresh start.

Green Bay, Wisconsin

Green Bay, Wisconsin, is a great destination for Nigerians looking to relocate to the US. Renowned as the home of the iconic Packers NFL team, Green Bay combines affordability and quality of life in a remarkable way. Residents spend just 19.92% of their median household income on housing, making it a financially sound choice. 

The city also ranks 7th in overall quality of life, particularly due to its short commutes and strong resilience to extreme weather events, as affirmed by FEMA. With its welcoming atmosphere and cost-effective living, Green Bay shines as an excellent starting point for Nigerians pursuing the American dream.

Huntsville, Alabama

While it may have relinquished its No. 1 ranking from the previous year, Huntsville, Alabama, continues to be a top contender on our list of ideal destinations for Nigerians with intentions to relocate to the US The city’s allure lies in its robust job market and affordability, an appealing combination for those considering relocation.

Huntsville ranks as the fourth-most affordable place to live among the 150 most populous metro areas in the country. This affordability is complemented by a thriving ecosystem of companies specializing in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM), resulting in higher average annual salaries for its residents. With its strong economic prospects and reasonable cost of living, Huntsville remains a compelling choice for Nigerians seeking a fresh start in the United States.

Raleigh and Durham, North Carolina

The Raleigh and Durham metro area in North Carolina remains a compelling destination for those seeking to relocate, driven by its affordability and thriving job market. This region is a hotbed for research, technology, education, and healthcare industries, ensuring ample employment opportunities. Its ranking is primarily attributed to its remarkable quality of life.

According to the U.S. Census Bureau, from 2020 to 2021, the Raleigh and Durham metro area experienced a 1.22% growth due to net migration. This dynamic, growing community offers an attractive prospect for Nigerian immigrants.

Boulder, Colorado

Boulder, Colorado, emerges as another top-notch destination for Nigerian immigrants. It shines with a robust job market and an outstanding quality of life. The metro area boasts an average annual salary of $73,360, surpassing the national average by nearly $15,000, and enjoys a remarkably low average monthly unemployment rate of just 2.69%.

Furthermore, Boulder’s commitment to education is evident, with a high school system ranking second for college readiness, only trailing San Jose. However, prospective residents should be prepared for a higher cost of living, as it requires 27.45% of the median household income to sustain life in this scenic Colorado city.

Sarasota, Florida

Sarasota, Florida, growing allure as a destination for Nigerians seeking to relocate to the US is incredible. Nestled on Florida’s picturesque Gulf Coast, Sarasota ranks as the seventh-most desirable place to live. Its appeal is undeniable, as evidenced by its status as the second-fastest growing metro area among the top 150 places ranked, trailing only Myrtle Beach. 

According to the U.S. Census Bureau, from 2020 to 2021, Sarasota experienced a substantial population increase of 3.55% due to net migration. This flourishing coastal gem beckons with promising opportunities and a vibrant community.

Naples, Florida

Naples, Florida, nestled on the tranquil southern end of Florida’s Gulf Coast, is a rising star on our list of coveted destinations for Nigerian immigrants. Unlike bustling Miami or Tampa, Naples offers a serene escape. The city’s population surged by 2.84% between 2020 and 2021, largely due to net migration, according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Naples clinches the fifth spot for overall desirability, underscoring its allure as a relocation hotspot. 

Another highlight is its exceptional air quality, ranking 12th out of the 150 most populous U.S. metro areas based on the AQI (Air Quality Index) score. With its natural beauty and growing appeal, Naples beckons as a promising choice for Nigerian newcomers.

Portland, Maine

Portland, Maine’s growth is attributed to its exceptional quality of life, a relatively stable job market, and an increasingly sought-after reputation as a desirable place to call home. 

Portland secures the eighth position for quality of life among the top 150 metro areas, factoring in essential aspects like college readiness among high school students, access to quality healthcare, crime rates, average commute times, and overall well-being. With its unique blend of livability and opportunity, Portland, Maine, beckons as a promising destination for Nigerians looking to relocate to the US.