Cost Guide: Traveling from Nigeria to the United States

Budgeting a Trip: Lagos → USA (Estimates)

Costs vary hugely by season, airline, visa type, destination city, and travel style. Below are typical ranges for a single traveler (USD).

1. Airfare (Round-trip, Lagos LOS → Major US Hub)

• Economy: $800 – $1,800 (peaks: Dec, Jul–Aug; lows: Feb–May, Sep–Nov).
• Premium Economy/Business: $2,500 – $6,000+.
• Carriers: Delta, United, British Airways, Virgin Atlantic, Ethiopian, Turkish, Qatar, Emirates (1–2 stops).

2. Visa Fees (Nonimmigrant)

• B-1/B-2 (Tourist/Business): $185
• F-1 (Student): $185 + $350 SEVIS fee
• H-1B/J-1/L-1 (Work/Exchange): $190–$460 + petition fees (employer-paid).

3. Accommodation (Per Night)

• Hostel/Shared: $30 – $70
• Budget Hotel/Motel: $80 – $150
• Mid-range Hotel: $150 – $300
• Airbnb/Extended Stay: $100 – $250 (discounts for weekly/monthly).

4. Food & Dining (Per Day)

• Groceries/Cooking: $15 – $30
• Casual Dining: $20 – $40
• Mid-range Restaurant: $40 – $80
• Fine Dining: $100+

5. Domestic Transport

• Flights: $100 – $400 per segment (book early).
• Train (Amtrak): $50 – $200+.
• Car Rental: $40 – $100/day + insurance/gas.
• Rideshare/Transit: $15 – $50/day in cities.

6. Health Insurance (Essential)

• Travel Medical (short-term): $50 – $200/month.
• ACA/Employer/University plans: Varies widely.

7. Activities & Miscellaneous

Attractions ($20–$100), tips (15–20%), SIM/data ($30–$60/mo), emergency buffer ($500–$1,000).

Sample 2-Week Budget (Moderate)

Always verify current visa fees, airline baggage policies, and COVID/health entry requirements.