Urban trees have markedly improved the environmental quality, biodiversity, and human well-being. However, their abundance and diversity vary across socioeconomic groups. This study assessed tree species in private residences in Akure, Nigeria, across three neighbourhoods representing different income levels: high-income (Ijapo), middle-income (Aule), and low-income (Oke-aro). We used convenience sampling to identify and record tree species in 150 private residences, calculating diversity using Margalef’s species richness, Pielou’s evenness and the Shannon diversity index. A total of 414 trees were recorded. Ijapo had the highest abundance (201 trees), followed by Aule (144 trees) and Oke-aro (69 trees). Aule had the both highest species richness (3.82) and evenness (0.91), followed by Oke-aro (3.78 and 0.90) and Ijapo (3.39 and 0.89). The Shannon diversity index values were 2.74 (Aule), 2.63 (Ijapo), and 2.56 (Oke-aro) indicated relatively high diversity overall. Polyalthia longifolia dominated Ijapo (19%), Citrus sinensis dominated Aule (18%), and Psidium guajava dominated Oke-aro (14%). Exotic species were prevalent in all neighbourhoods, while indigenous species such as Elaeis guineensis and Dacryodes edulis were rare. Socioeconomic factors influenced species selection, as high-income areas favored ornamental trees, whereas low-income neighbourhoods prioritised fruit-bearing species for economic and subsistence benefits. This finding highlights the need for urban forestry policies to promote indigenous species to enhance biodiversity and ecological resilience. Tree-planting initiatives should also target low-income areas to ensure equitable access to urban greenspaces and their benefits.