Best Areas To Live In Kenya?

A guide to all the best places to live in Kenya
A guide to all the best places to live in Kenya
Choosing Kenya Residence means getting a wide choice of Leisure Activities: From Safari Sunsets to City Lights, Adventure Awaits

Ultimate Guide of Best Places To Live In Kenya

Kenya offers fantastic places to live and work for digital nomads, expats, and professionals seeking a high quality of life.

Each area has its own unique character, from vibrant urban centers to peaceful coastal and rural spots.

Why Kenya Is The Ideal Destination To Nurture Your Family

Kenya offers a wide range of living options that cater to different lifestyles, from the bustling city life in Nairobi to the relaxed coastal vibe of Diani Beach and the serene landscapes of the Rift Valley.

Whether you’re a digital nomad, expatriate, or professional, you’ll find a neighborhood that suits your needs and preferences.

Kenya is truly open and ready to welcome you with diverse living environments, vibrant communities, and world-class amenities.

Here’s a detailed guide on the best areas to live in Kenya:

Best Places to Live In Nairobi

Nairobi, Kenya’s capital, is a thriving city known for its urban culture and nature.

Why Is Nairobi Famous?

Nairobi, known as the safari capital of Kenya, blends modernity and tradition. The city features vibrant nightlife, excellent restaurants, and diverse accommodations, just 7km from Nairobi National Park.

Here are some of the best neighborhoods to live in:

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Best places to live in Kenya include Westlands in Nairobi

Top Brands Operating In Westlands

  • Overview: Westlands is Nairobi’s commercial and entertainment hub, popular with expats and professionals. It offers a great selection of modern apartments, office spaces, restaurants, bars, and shopping malls.
  • Why live here: It’s close to major business hubs, has excellent infrastructure, and offers a vibrant social scene.
  • Ideal for: Professionals, young families, and digital nomads seeking a lively area with plenty of amenities.
  • Highlights: Sarit Centre Mall, high-rise apartments, Nairobi Garage (co-working space), and a wide variety of international restaurants.
The best places to live in Kenya includes Kilimani, Nairobi

Top Brands Operating In Kilimani

  • Overview: Kilimani is a central, upscale neighborhood that blends residential living with commercial activity. It’s a popular choice for expats and upper-middle-class Kenyans, offering proximity to offices, cafes, and shopping malls.
  • Why live here: It’s close to the city center, has high-end apartments, and offers a cosmopolitan lifestyle.
  • Ideal for: Expats, professionals, and digital nomads who want a modern, city lifestyle.
  • Highlights: Yaya Centre, Junction Mall, cafés, and co-working spaces like Ikigai and Kofisi.
The best places to live in Kenya includes Karen, Nairobi

Top Brands Operating In Karen

  • Karen Hospital
  • World Vision
  • WaterFront Mall
  • The HUB Mall
  • Hemingways
  • Nairobi Garage
  • Catholic University of Eastern Africa
  • Cooperative University of Kenya
  • Marist International University
  • Tangaza University College
  • Overview: Karen is an affluent suburb located in the southwest of Nairobi. It’s known for its spacious homes, greenery, and tranquil atmosphere, far from the hustle and bustle of the city.
  • Why live here: Offers a peaceful environment with luxury homes, a strong expat community, and proximity to nature and leisure activities.
  • Ideal for: Families, retirees, and those who value privacy and space.
  • Highlights: Karen Blixen Museum, Nairobi National Park, Karen Country Club, The Hub Karen Mall.
Lavington Mall, Nairobi

Top Brands Operating In Lavington

  • Gertrude’s Children’s Hospital
  • Plan International
  • Lavington Mall
  • The Social House
  • Regus
  • Braeside Lavington
  • Braeburn Schools
  • Brookhurst International Schools
  • Overview: Lavington is an upscale residential area offering large homes, townhouses, and apartments. It’s a quiet, green neighborhood favored by diplomats, businesspeople, and expatriates.
  • Why live here: It has a serene environment with access to international schools, shopping centers, and quality healthcare.
  • Ideal for: Families, professionals, and diplomats.
  • Highlights: Valley Arcade, Lavington Mall, and proximity to some of Nairobi’s best international schools.
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Top Brands Operating In Gigiri

  • Gertrude’s Children’s Hospital
  • Two Rivers Mall
  • Village Market
  • Lord Eroll
  • UNEP
  • Karura Forest
  • Muthaiga Golf Club
  • Diplomatic Missions
  • Overview: Gigiri is home to many international organizations like the United Nations and numerous embassies, making it a secure, international-friendly neighborhood.
  • Why live here: It offers a mix of spacious homes, good security, and an international community vibe.
  • Ideal for: Diplomats, expatriates, and professionals working in NGOs or international organizations.
  • Highlights: Village Market, Karura Forest, and the United Nations Complex.

Top Brands Operating In Riverside

  • Strathmore School
  • Office Park
  • 14 Riverside, Dusit Hotel
  • Diplomatic Missions
  • Overview: Riverside is a high-end area located between Westlands and the city center. It’s known for its luxury apartments, embassies, and a peaceful environment close to Nairobi’s key business districts.
  • Why live here: It’s ideal for professionals who want a quiet yet central location, with easy access to offices and social amenities.
  • Ideal for: Business executives, professionals, and diplomats.
  • Highlights: Riverside Drive, easy access to co-working spaces, and a quiet, secure environment.

Best Places To Live In The Coastal Region

Discover best places to live in kenya including Mombasa, Nairobi, Lamu, Kilifi and Diani

Why Is Mombasa A Beloved Coastal Gem?

Mombasa, Kenya’s delightful second-largest city, is celebrated for its breathtaking beaches and vibrant history. It’s the ultimate getaway spot, attracting both locals and travelers from afar, with charming places like Diani Beach, Watamu and Mtwapa along the beautiful Indian Ocean.

Mombasa and the surrounding coastal areas offer a relaxed lifestyle by the Indian Ocean, ideal for those who love beaches and warm weather.

Best-places-to-live-in-kenya-nyali

Top Brands Operating In Nyali

  • Nyali Beach
  • City Mall
  • Nyali Golf Club
  • Marina
  • Overview: Nyali is an upscale residential area in Mombasa, offering modern apartments, beach access, and proximity to entertainment and shopping centers. It’s one of the most popular neighborhoods for expats and tourists.
  • Why live here: Beachfront living, great schools, and a wide range of social amenities make Nyali one of Mombasa’s most desirable neighborhoods.
  • Ideal for: Expats, retirees, and families seeking a relaxed coastal lifestyle.
  • Highlights: Nyali Beach, City Mall, Nyali Golf Club, and high-end beach resorts.
Best places to live in Kenya include towns like Naivasha, Nakuru, Nairobi, Mombasa, Watamu, Diani,Nyali, Kisumu

Top Brands Operating In Diani Beach

  • Colobus Conservation
  • Diani Beach
  • Neptune Hotel
  • Ukunda Airstrip
  • Overview: Located south of Mombasa, Diani Beach is famous for its white sandy beaches and turquoise waters. It’s a popular area for both tourists and digital nomads seeking a slower, more relaxed lifestyle.
  • Why live here: Diani offers an idyllic setting for those who want to live by the beach, with a range of beachfront properties, co-working spaces, and leisure activities.
  • Ideal for: Digital nomads, retirees, and those looking for a peaceful, beach-focused life.
  • Highlights: Stunning beaches, Colobus Conservation, water sports, and beach resorts.
Best places to live in Kenya include towns like Naivasha, Nakuru, Nairobi, Mombasa, Watamu, Diani,Nyali, Kisumu (beach, sea, footprints

Top Brands Operating In Kilifi

  • Kilifi Creek
  • Mtwapa Town
  • Overview: Kilifi is a quiet, coastal town located between Mombasa and Malindi. It’s less commercialized than Diani but offers a more laid-back, off-the-beaten-path lifestyle, with a growing expat community.
  • Why live here: It’s perfect for those looking for a calm and authentic coastal experience, with affordable beachfront homes and a close-knit community.
  • Ideal for: Digital nomads, retirees, and creatives.
  • Highlights: Kilifi Creek, dhow sailing, and relaxed coastal living.
Watamu is one the best places to live in Kenya because of the clean beaches

Top Brands Operating In Watamu

  • Watamu Marine National Park
  • Gede Ruins
  • Overview: Watamu is a small coastal town known for its natural beauty, marine life, and unspoiled beaches. It offers a slower pace of life and is ideal for those who want to immerse themselves in nature.
  • Why live here: It’s a peaceful paradise with opportunities for diving, kite surfing, and enjoying nature reserves like Arabuko-Sokoke Forest.
  • Ideal for: Digital nomads, environmental enthusiasts, and those seeking tranquility.
  • Highlights: Watamu Marine National Park, snorkelling, turtle conservation, and beautiful beaches.

Best Areas to Live in Kisumu (Western Kenya)

Kisumu City in Western Kenya has the best places to live in Kenya because of the clean beaches

Kisumu is a growing city located on the shores of Lake Victoria, known for its laid-back lifestyle and natural beauty.

Kisumu is one the best places to live in Kenya because of the clean beaches

Top Brands Operating In Milimani ( Kisumu)

  • Kisumu Yacht Club
  • Kisumu Impala Sanctuary
  • Kisumu International Airport
  • Overview: Milimani is an affluent residential area in Kisumu, offering spacious homes with views of Lake Victoria. It’s the most desirable area for professionals and expatriates in the city.
  • Why live here: It offers a peaceful, suburban lifestyle with easy access to Kisumu’s central business district and social amenities.
  • Ideal for: Professionals, expatriates, and retirees.
  • Highlights: Proximity to Kisumu Yacht Club, Kisumu Impala Sanctuary, and the Kisumu International Airport.
Riat in Kisumu is one the best places to live in Kenya because of the clean beaches

Top Brands Operating In Riat Hills

  • Kisumu Golf Club
  • Riat Hills
  • Kakamega Forest
  • Overview: Located on the outskirts of Kisumu, Riat Hills is an up-and-coming residential area with stunning views of the city and Lake Victoria. It’s perfect for those seeking a serene, rural setting close to the city.
  • Why live here: It offers spacious homes, tranquility, and beautiful natural surroundings.
  • Ideal for: Professionals, retirees, and those looking for a peaceful lifestyle.
  • Highlights: Scenic views, new housing developments, and peaceful environment.

Best Areas to Live in Nakuru and Naivasha (Rift Valley)

Nakuru and Naivasha are some of the best places to live in Kenya because of the clean beaches

Nakuru and Naivasha are rapidly growing towns in the Rift Valley region, offering a relaxed lifestyle with access to wildlife and natural parks.

Why is Nakuru famous?

During the colonial period, Nakuru was a centre of European activity. Now one of the largest towns in Kenya, Nakuru is an important agricultural centre and the site of Egerton University (1939). It is a busy commercial and transport centre for west-central Kenya.
Milimani in Nakuru is one of the best places to live in Kenya because of the clean beaches

Top Brands Operating In Milimani (Nakuru)

  • Lake Nakuru National Park
  • Mail Saba Campsite
  • Nakuru Golf Club
  • Overview: Milimani is Nakuru’s upscale residential area, known for its spacious homes and close proximity to Lake Nakuru National Park.
  • Why live here: It’s ideal for those who want to live in a quieter town with access to nature and wildlife.
  • Ideal for: Families, retirees, and professionals.
  • Highlights: Lake Nakuru National Park, Nakuru Golf Club, and serene living.
Best places to live in Kenya include towns like Naivasha, Nakuru, Nairobi, Mombasa, Watamu, Diani,Nyali, Kisumu

Top Brands Operating In Green Park (Naivasha)

  • Lake Naivasha
  • Hell’s Gate National Park
  • Great Rift Valley Lodge
  • Pembrooke School, Gilgil
  • Overview: Green Park is a gated community located near Lake Naivasha, offering luxury homes with easy access to recreational activities.
  • Why live here: It’s perfect for those seeking a rural escape with proximity to Nairobi, as well as a golf course and other outdoor activities.
  • Ideal for: Families, retirees, and those who enjoy outdoor activities.
  • Highlights: Lake Naivasha, Hell’s Gate National Park, and Great Rift Valley Lodge & Golf Resort.

Useful information

Visit Kenya, Working In Kenya, Remote Work In Kenya

How To Visit, Work, Vacation, Trade, Study & Vacation In Kenya

Kenya is more than just a destination—Kenya is home. Home to humanity, home to opportunity, home to adventure, and home to innovation.

Visit Kenya Today Because;

  • Kenya is the Cradle of Mankind — The story of humanity began here, and it’s still unfolding. From ancient relics to modern cities, Kenya is where tradition meets innovation.

  • Kenya is Open for Business — With robust infrastructure, strategic geographical positioning, and a growing economy, Kenya is the ideal gateway for trade and investment in Africa.

  • Kenya is a Premier Tourist Destination — From the savannas of the Maasai Mara to the pristine beaches of the Indian Ocean, Kenya offers unparalleled natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. The Big Five? We’ve got them all.

  • Kenya is an Educational Hub — With world-class institutions and an emphasis on innovation and technology, Kenya is the top choice for international students looking for a unique academic experience.

  • Kenya Welcomes You Home — Whether you’re an expatriate seeking a vibrant new life or a retiree looking for paradise, Kenya offers a friendly, multicultural society and an ideal climate.

Visit Kenya, Working In Kenya, Remote Work In Kenya

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