Cost of Living in Kenya
Last updated on Feb 02, 2023
Summary: The cost of living in Kenya is generally considered to be quite affordable. A nice 1 bedroom apartment in Kenya can cost anywhere from $400 to $800 per month, while a nice 2 bedroom apartment can cost from $600 to $1,200 per month. The cost of dinner at a moderately priced restaurant in Kenya is usually around $10 to $15 per person.
Is the cost of living in Kenya high?
We asked people how much they someone comfortably live on in Kenya, they wrote:
"The cost of living in Kenya varies depending on the city and lifestyle. Generally, basic necessities such as food, transportation, and housing are relatively inexpensive. However, luxury items such as electronics, imported goods, and entertainment can be more expensive. Additionally, the cost of living in Kenya is affected by the exchange rate of the Kenyan shilling to other currencies," explained one expat.

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Will I save money living in Kenya?
"Living in Kenya can be significantly cheaper than living in the United States. The cost of living in Kenya is generally lower than in the United States, with basic necessities such as food, housing, and transportation being much more affordable. Additionally, the cost of healthcare and education is also much lower in Kenya than in the United States. As a result, many people find that they can save a considerable amount of money by living in Kenya compared to the United States," explained one expat.
What is the average cost of housing in Kenya?
If you are thinking about moving to Kenya, cost of living in probably a key consideration. Expats commented about the cost of housing:
"Housing is around 30/35 thousand Kenyan shillings. It is the same or even lower than in my host country," said one expat in Mombasa.
"Higher, we paid $560 for a townhouse in a small town in Norway and now we pay 900 for an apt simply because of the area and locals jack up the price for foreigners," remarked one in Nairobi, the whole country.
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What are typical rental prices for expats in Kenya?
"The rental price for a nice 1 bedroom apartment in Kenya can vary depending on the location and amenities, but generally ranges from around $400 to $800 per month. For a nice 2 bedroom apartment, the rental price can range from around $600 to $1,200 per month," remarked one expat in Kenya.
What appliances are typically included in a rental?
We asked foreigners in Kenya what appliances are typically included in a rental, and, if there is anything else included or not included that a newcomer would not expect. Replies included:
"In Kenya, rental properties typically include a refrigerator, stove, oven, and washing machine. Other common appliances may include a microwave, dishwasher, and air conditioning unit. Depending on the property, additional amenities such as a water heater, water filter, and security system may also be included," said one expat.
About the Author
Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International
and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University
with a BA in International Business and German.
Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.
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