The Average Cost of living In Kenya?

A guide on the Cost of Living in Kenya

An Overview of the Cost of Living In Kenya

The cost of living in Kenya varies significantly depending on the city, lifestyle choices, and the area you choose to live in. Major urban centers like Nairobi and Mombasa tend to be more expensive than rural or coastal areas, though Kenya offers options for a range of budgets.

the ultimate guide in regard to Cost of Living in Kenya
A guide to all the best places to live in Kenya

What Determines The Cost of Living In Kenya

Here’s a detailed breakdown of the cost of living for digital nomads, expats, and professionals considering remote work in Kenya, based on housing, utilities, food, transportation, healthcare, and entertainment:

How Housing and Accommodation Costs Determine The Cost of Living In Kenya

The cost of accommodation is one of the largest expenses in Kenya, and it varies greatly depending on the location and type of housing. Nairobi is the most expensive city, followed by Mombasa and Kisumu. Coastal towns like Diani and Watamu are relatively more affordable but offer premium pricing for beachfront properties.

Cost of Living ( Accomodation and Housing Costs) in Nairobi
Nairobi City
Mombasa Island
Kisumu City in Western Kenya has the best places to live in Kenya because of the clean beaches
Lake Victoria
Milimani in Nakuru is one of the best places to live in Kenya because of the clean beaches
Nakuru

Nairobi:

  • 1-bedroom apartment (City center/Westlands/Kilimani): $600 – $1,200 per month
  • 1-bedroom apartment (Suburbs/Karen/Lavington): $400 – $800 per month
  • 3-bedroom apartment (City center/Westlands/Kilimani): $1,200 – $2,500 per month
  • 3-bedroom apartment (Suburbs/Karen/Lavington): $800 – $1,500 per month
  • Utilities (electricity, heating, cooling, water, garbage): $80 – $150 per month

Mombasa:

  • 1-bedroom apartment (Nyali): $400 – $800 per month
  • 3-bedroom apartment (Nyali): $800 – $1,500 per month
  • Utilities: $50 – $100 per month

Coastal Areas (Diani, Watamu, Kilifi):

  • 1-bedroom apartment (beachfront): $400 – $700 per month
  • 3-bedroom villa (beachfront): $1,000 – $2,000 per month
  • Utilities: $50 – $100 per month

Kisumu and Nakuru:

  • 1-bedroom apartment: $200 – $500 per month
  • 3-bedroom apartment: $500 – $1,000 per month
  • Utilities: $40 – $80 per month

How Food and Groceries Costs Determine The Cost of Living In Kenya

The cost of food is a key component worthy considering if you are interested to know the cost of living in Kenya. Fortunately,  food is relatively affordable, especially if you shop locally and cook your own meals. Supermarkets in cities offer a wide range of imported and local products, but dining out can vary from budget-friendly options to high-end restaurants.

Groceries
Kenya offers affordable cost of living across major expenses like dining out
Dining Out

Groceries (per month for one person):

  • Basic groceries (local markets): $100 – $150
  • Supermarket groceries (imported goods included): $150 – $300

Dining Out:

  • Local meal (inexpensive restaurant): $3 – $5
  • Three-course meal for two (mid-range restaurant): $30 – $50
  • Coffee at a café (latte/cappuccino): $2 – $4

Supermarket Prices:

  • Milk (1 liter): $1
  • Loaf of bread: $1 – $1.50
  • Rice (1 kg): $1.50
  • Eggs (12): $1.50 – $2
  • Chicken breast (1 kg): $5 – $7
  • Local beer (0.5 liter): $1.50 – $2
  • Bottle of wine (mid-range): $10 – $20

How Transportation Costs Determine The Cost of Living In Kenya

Kenya offers multiple transportation options, from public buses and matatus (minivans) to ride-hailing apps like Uber, Bolt, and Little Cab. Owning a car is more expensive due to high import taxes on vehicles, but it’s an option for those planning a long-term stay.

Kenya offers affordable cost of living in terms of transport

Public Transportation:

  • Bus/matatu fare (Nairobi/Mombasa): $0.30 – $1 per trip
  • Monthly public transport pass (Nairobi): $40 – $60

Ride-Hailing (Uber/Bolt/Little):

  • Short trip (within city center, Nairobi): $3 – $8
  • Longer trip (cross-city, Nairobi): $10 – $20

Owning a Car:

  • Gasoline (per liter): $1.20 – $1.50
  • Car purchase (new Toyota sedan): $15,000 – $25,000
  • Car insurance (per year): $500 – $1,000

Other Transport:

  • Domestic flights (Nairobi to Mombasa): $50 – $150 (one-way)

How Internet and Mobile Costs Determine The Cost of Living In Kenya

Kenya has excellent internet and mobile network coverage, especially in urban areas. The country is known for its fast mobile internet speeds and affordable data plans. Fiber internet is also widely available in major cities like Nairobi, Mombasa, and Kisumu.

Internet In Kenya is one of the fastest in World allowing an affordable cost of living

Internet:

  • Fiber optic (10-20 Mbps): $30 – $60 per month
  • Fiber optic (50+ Mbps): $60 – $100 per month

Mobile Data:

  • Prepaid mobile data (1 GB): $1 – $2
  • Monthly mobile plan (with calls, texts, and data): $10 – $20

How Healthcare Costs Determine The Cost of Living In Kenya

Healthcare in Kenya ranges from affordable public hospitals to high-end private clinics and hospitals, especially in cities like Nairobi and Mombasa. Many expats opt for private healthcare, which provides better facilities and shorter wait times.

Kenya offers affordable cost of living because of better healthcare services and facilities

Health Insurance:

  • Local health insurance (basic coverage): $50 – $100 per month
  • Comprehensive expat health insurance (including international coverage): $150 – $400 per month

Healthcare Services:

  • Doctor’s consultation (private clinic): $30 – $50 per visit
  • Specialist consultation: $50 – $100
  • Routine dental cleaning: $30 – $60
  • Hospital stay (private room per day): $100 – $250

How Entertainment and Leisure Costs Determine The Cost of Living in Kenya

Kenya offers a wide range of entertainment options, from cultural activities and safaris to nightlife, beaches, and hiking. Whether you’re exploring Nairobi’s vibrant social scene or relaxing at the coast, there’s always something to do.

Kenya offers affordable cost of living because of better entertainment options
Kenya offers affordable cost of living in terms of accomodation and travel

Gym Membership:

  • Monthly fee (Nairobi): $30 – $60
  • Monthly fee (Coastal towns): $20 – $40

Cinema Ticket:

  • Regular screening: $6 – $10
  • 3D/IMAX screening: $10 – $15

Safari/Outdoor Activities:

  • Safari (per day in a national park): $100 – $500, depending on the park and level of service.
  • Entrance to national parks (non-residents): $40 – $80 per person
  • Golf club membership (monthly): $50 – $200

Nightlife and Bars:

  • Local beer (bar/restaurant): $2 – $4
  • Cocktail at a bar: $6 – $10
  • Nightclub entry fee (Nairobi): $5 – $15

How Education Costs Determines The Cost of Living In Kenya

If you’re relocating with family, there are many international schools in Kenya offering top-tier education, particularly in Nairobi and Mombasa. These schools follow curricula from the U.S., U.K., and International Baccalaureate (IB).

primary education and secondary school education in kenya

International School Fees (Nairobi):

  • Primary school (annual): $8,000 – $20,000
  • Secondary school (annual): $15,000 – $30,000

Public School Fees (Kenyan schools):

  • Primary school (public): Free
  • Secondary school (public): $500 – $1,000 per year
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Total Monthly Budget for Different Lifestyles

Budget Lifestyle (Single Person in Nairobi):

  • Rent: $400 – $600
  • Food: $150 – $250
  • Transport: $50 – $100
  • Internet & Utilities: $100 – $150
  • Leisure: $100 – $200
  • Total: $800 – $1,300

Mid-Range Lifestyle (Single Person in Nairobi):

  • Rent: $800 – $1,200
  • Food: $250 – $350
  • Transport: $100 – $200
  • Internet & Utilities: $150 – $200
  • Leisure: $200 – $300
  • Total: $1,500 – $2,500

Luxury Lifestyle (Single Person in Nairobi):

  • Rent: $1,500 – $2,500
  • Food: $400 – $600
  • Transport: $300 – $500
  • Internet & Utilities: $250 – $400
  • Leisure: $500 – $1,000
  • Total: $3,000 – $5,000

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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About The Author

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Chief Brand Curator at  | Portfolio

Victor Isyamba is a seasoned brand curator and intrapreneur with over 27 years of experience building brands across 33+ industry verticals.
He consistently innovates by building information systems used by thousands of individuals, communities, government agencies, and organizations to transform ideas into thriving brand assets.