Cost of Living in Kenya

The relatively low cost of living in Kenya compared to many other destinations is one of the country’s many draws. The capital city, Nairobi, is one of Africa’s most affordable metropolises. It is cheaper than the likes of Maputo in Mozambique and Luanda in Angola.

That said, costs have been rising in recent years, particularly in expat-focused areas. The highest costs come from amenities such as private healthcare, international school fees, comfortable housing, and domestic staff. You will also have to account for additional living expenses you wouldn’t incur back home, such as bottled or filtered drinking water, a security guard, a driver, and a backup generator for power cuts.

Fortunately, many expats find their employer covers some of the heftiest expenses. Multinational companies and international organisations increasingly offer packages with housing, transport, relocation, and school fee allowances; the last of these can be substantial at international schools. It’s best to negotiate these benefits into your expat packages where possible, as they can significantly offset Kenya’s rising cost of living.

Cost of accommodation in Kenya

The cost of accommodation in Kenya will likely be your most significant expense. Most expats with a fixed-term contract who don’t intend to settle in the country long term opt to rent. Rent in cities such as Nairobi and Mombasa is higher than in rural areas, and prime residential rents have risen in recent years thanks to strong demand from expats and high-net-worth individuals.

Security is a key concern when choosing where to live, and you should factor it into your accommodation costs. Many expats opt to live in a secure, gated community, which can cost as much as property in Europe. Gigiri, Runda, Karen, and Lavington are popular expat areas with excellent security, and you’ll pay premium rents to live in them. Rental costs in safe expat areas are much higher. Luxury developments often have round-the-clock security patrols and controlled access.

Renting Accommodation in Kenya 
Safety in Kenya

Cost of transport in Kenya

The cost of transport in Kenya is low, at least on public transport, which expats rarely use because it’s uncomfortable and inefficient. Matatus (shared minibuses) carry most commuters, and fares for short trips are minimal, although they’re frequently overcrowded and their drivers can be erratic. Nairobi’s long-promised Bus Rapid Transit system has had years of delays, and the rollout has been gradual.

Many expats rely on ride-hailing services such as Uber and Bolt for city travel, or they hire private drivers for regular commuting. When it comes to getting around in Kenya in the long term, expats often hire or buy a car and find a local driver. A four-wheel drive is the best option if you want to travel domestically in Kenya, but it is pricier than a regular vehicle.

Getting Around in Kenya

Cost of groceries in Kenya

The cost of groceries in Kenya can come as a surprise, as food and basic household products are relatively pricey for expats. Many of these goods are imported and heavily taxed. Food prices have risen in recent years, and imported items, in particular, cost more due to inefficient supply chains.

There are several supermarket chains where you can buy anything from dairy products to mattresses, furniture, alcohol, and electronics. You can also find many imported foods, such as cheeses, jams, chocolates, oils, and pasta.

Buying local produce is the best way to save money on groceries in Kenya. Because of the country’s favourable climate, you can find high-quality fruit and vegetables at local markets that are far cheaper than in a supermarket.

Cost of entertainment and eating out in Kenya

There’s no shortage of options for eating out in Kenyan cities. Most Western restaurants are in expat areas and serve dishes made with imported ingredients, so prices are higher. If you are interested in trying local Kenyan foods, plenty of establishments sell generous portions for next to nothing.

The nightlife and entertainment scene in Kenya’s big cities is growing. New clubs and bars keep popping up. If you want to enjoy a local beer, you will find plenty of small bars throughout Kenya where you can have a drink while watching the sunset.

Cost of education in Kenya

Families moving here with children have a lot to think about when it comes to the cost of education in Kenya. Although public schooling is free, expats will likely prefer the standard of education offered at private or international schools.

International school fees can be substantial and have increased significantly in recent years. Top-tier schools charge considerable annual tuition. At the most expensive schools, you’ll pay more than you would in Europe or North America. The facilities and teaching standards are excellent, so you will have to decide whether they are worth the cost.

Fortunately, private schools cost less than international schools and still have good resources and teaching standards. They set their own fees, so visit several before you settle on one.

Education and Schools in Kenya 
International Schools in Nairobi

Cost of healthcare in Kenya

Public health facilities exist, but most expats choose private hospitals and clinics. The cost of healthcare in Kenya is worth planning for, as private care is better but pricier than the public system. The government has replaced the old NHIF insurance scheme with a new Social Health Authority (SHA) system. The switch has caused ongoing disruptions to coverage.

You should arrange solid health insurance for yourself and your family, as private healthcare costs add up quickly without it. Many expats take out international health insurance that covers them both in Kenya and abroad. That way, they are covered for emergencies as well as routine care.

Healthcare and Medical Insurance in Kenya

Cost of living in Kenya chart

Prices are listed in Kenyan shillings (KES) and may vary depending on the product and service provider. The list below shows average prices for Nairobi in July 2026.