Living in Nairobi: the ultimate expat guide
Everything you need to know for a successful life in Nairobi.
Nairobi, Kenya's capital and largest city, serves as the economic and cultural hub of East Africa. With an estimated population of 5.5 million, this dynamic metropolis offers a unique blend of urban sophistication and natural beauty, with the remarkable distinction of being the only capital city in the world with a national park within its boundaries. The city hosts the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) headquarters and numerous multinational corporations, making it a strategic base for professionals and families seeking opportunities in Africa.
Why Nairobi Attracts Newcomers
Nairobi's appeal lies in its combination of career opportunities, lifestyle advantages, and access to extraordinary wildlife experiences. The city has earned its nickname "The Green City in the Sun" thanks to its pleasant year-round climate at 1,795 meters above sea level, with average temperatures between 17°C and 25°C. English is widely spoken alongside Swahili, making communication straightforward for international residents.
5 Good Reasons to Move to Nairobi
- Strategic location – Nairobi serves as Africa's gateway with excellent flight connections to Europe, Asia, and the Americas via Jomo Kenyatta International Airport.
- Thriving economy – As East Africa's financial capital, the city offers abundant career opportunities in technology, finance, NGOs, and international organizations.
- Affordable living – Cost of living is approximately 57% lower than in the United States, allowing for a comfortable lifestyle on moderate budgets.
- Wildlife at your doorstep – Experience safaris in Nairobi National Park, visit elephant orphanages, and feed giraffes all within the city limits.
- Welcoming community – Kenya ranks 14th globally for expatriate satisfaction according to the InterNations 2024 survey, praised for local friendliness and ease of settling in.
Working in Nairobi: Opportunities and Requirements
Nairobi stands as Africa's leading business destination, hosting regional headquarters for numerous multinational corporations, international organizations, and a rapidly growing technology sector often referred to as "Silicon Savannah." The city offers diverse employment opportunities for qualified professionals, particularly in sectors where local expertise remains limited.
Key Industries and Employment Sectors
The technology sector has emerged as a major employer, with Kenya raising over USD 53 million for e-mobility startups alone in recent years. The financial services industry thrives with the Nairobi Securities Exchange serving as East Africa's largest stock market. International organizations including the United Nations, World Bank, and numerous NGOs maintain significant operations in Nairobi, offering positions for experienced professionals. Other growing sectors include telecommunications, manufacturing, tourism, and agriculture.
Work Permits and Legal Requirements
Foreign nationals must obtain a valid work permit before commencing employment in Kenya. The most common categories include the Class D Work Permit for employees with specific job offers (fee: KES 200,000/year, approximately USD 1,548), the Class G Work Permit for business owners and consultants, and the newly introduced Class N Permit for digital nomads requiring proof of USD 24,000 annual income from foreign sources. Applications are submitted through the electronic Foreign Nationals Services (eFNS) portal, with processing times typically ranging from 2 to 6 months.
The following table summarizes key employment indicators for Nairobi:
Unemployment Rate (National) | 5.4% (2024) |
Average Monthly Salary (Nairobi) | USD 500–800 (office workers) |
Key Sectors | Technology, Finance, NGOs, Tourism |
Sources: Trading Economics, Kenya Department of Immigration Services
Work in Nairobi
Expats hoping to find work in Nairobi will find a diverse city with many opportunities, especially in finance, tourism, and manufacturing. However, ...
Higher Education: Universities in Nairobi
Nairobi hosts some of Africa's most prestigious universities, attracting students from across the continent and beyond. The city offers diverse academic programs ranging from undergraduate degrees to doctoral research, with several institutions featuring prominently in continental rankings.
Leading Universities
The University of Nairobi (UoN), established in 1970, is Kenya's oldest and most prestigious institution, ranked among Africa's top 10 universities. It operates seven campuses across the city and offers over 300 academic programs. Notable alumni include former UN Secretary-General Kofi Annan and Nobel laureate Professor Wangari Maathai. Kenyatta University (KU), founded in 1965, welcomed over 10,000 students in its 2025/2026 cohort and operates across 13 locations. The United States International University-Africa (USIU-Africa) offers American-style education with strong international connections.
Admission and Fees
International students can apply directly through university portals, with the University of Nairobi charging an application fee of USD 50 for foreign applicants. The academic year typically begins in August/September, with additional intakes in January and May. Tuition fees vary significantly by institution and program, with public universities generally more affordable than private institutions. International students from non-English speaking countries must demonstrate English proficiency. The Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (JKUAT) in Juja offers strong programs in engineering and technology fields.
Sources: University of Nairobi, Kenyatta University
Schools for Children: International Education Options
Nairobi offers excellent educational options for families, with a wide selection of international schools following British, American, and International Baccalaureate curricula. These institutions cater specifically to the diverse needs of the international community and maintain high academic standards.
Top International Schools
The International School of Kenya (ISK), established in 1976 by the U.S. and Canadian governments, offers the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Program alongside American curriculum for students from Pre-K to Grade 12. Located in the Gigiri area near the UN complex, ISK serves approximately 900 students from over 60 nationalities. The Nairobi International School (NIS) in Lavington follows the British National Curriculum and serves students aged 2 to 19. Other notable options include Brookhouse School, Braeburn Schools (multiple campuses), and the Aga Khan Academy.
Fees and Enrollment
International school fees vary considerably. At ISK, annual tuition ranges from approximately USD 15,000 for elementary to USD 28,000 for high school grades, plus a one-time capital levy. Nairobi International School charges termly fees starting at KES 184,000 (approximately USD 1,420) for playgroup, rising to KES 440,000 (approximately USD 3,400) for senior high per term. Most schools require enrollment deposits and have waiting lists for popular grade levels. The academic year typically runs from August to June at American-curriculum schools and September to July at British-curriculum institutions.
Sources: International School of Kenya, Nairobi International School
Housing and Neighborhoods: Where to Live in Nairobi
Nairobi offers diverse housing options across numerous neighborhoods, each with distinct characteristics suited to different lifestyles and budgets. Security, proximity to schools and workplaces, and access to amenities are key considerations when choosing where to live.
Popular Neighborhoods for International Residents
Karen remains one of Nairobi's most prestigious suburbs, named after Danish author Karen Blixen. This leafy area offers spacious homes with large gardens, excellent international schools (Brookhouse, Hillcrest, The Banda School), and proximity to wildlife attractions. Runda and Gigiri house many diplomatic families due to their proximity to the UN complex and embassies, offering modern homes on large plots with strong security infrastructure. Kilimani and Kileleshwa provide more urban living with modern apartment complexes featuring amenities like swimming pools, gyms, and 24-hour security, ideal for young professionals. Lavington offers a balance between suburban tranquility and city convenience, with easy access to multiple international schools.
Rental Prices and Housing Market
Monthly rents vary significantly by neighborhood and property type:
1-bedroom apartment (Kilimani/Westlands) | KES 70,000–100,000 (USD 540–770) |
3-bedroom apartment (city center) | KES 150,000–200,000 (USD 1,160–1,550) |
4-5 bedroom house (Karen/Runda) | KES 300,000–450,000 (USD 2,320–3,480) |
Most rentals require one month's deposit plus first month's rent in advance. Leases typically run for 12 months. Many properties in upscale areas come with staff quarters for domestic workers and 24-hour security services.
Sources: Numbeo, Expat.com Housing
Accommodation in Nairobi
Many expats moving to Kenya are likely to find themselves relocating to Nairobi, as it is both the nations capital and its largest city. When ...
Leisure, Culture and Things to Do in Nairobi
Nairobi offers an exceptional range of leisure activities combining wildlife encounters, cultural experiences, outdoor adventures, and urban entertainment. The city's unique position allows residents to enjoy safari experiences before returning home for dinner.
Wildlife and Nature Experiences
Nairobi National Park, covering 117 square kilometers, remains the city's crown jewel, offering game drives where lions, rhinos, and giraffes roam against a backdrop of city skyscrapers. The David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust opens daily at 11 AM for visitors to observe orphaned elephant feedings (entry: USD 15). The Giraffe Centre in Karen allows visitors to hand-feed endangered Rothschild's giraffes from elevated platforms. Karura Forest, just minutes from the city center, offers 50 kilometers of walking and cycling trails through indigenous forest. The Ngong Hills provide popular weekend hiking with panoramic views of the Great Rift Valley.
Cultural Attractions and Entertainment
The Nairobi National Museum showcases Kenya's rich cultural and natural history, including the famous Hominid Vault with prehistoric fossils. The Karen Blixen Museum, the author's former home featured in "Out of Africa," offers insight into colonial-era Kenya. Bomas of Kenya presents traditional music, dance, and cultural performances representing the country's diverse ethnic communities. For dining and nightlife, areas like Westlands offer international restaurants, rooftop bars, and nightclubs, while Karen features upscale restaurants including the famous Carnivore and Talisman. Weekend activities include golf at several courses, rugby matches, and the vibrant Maasai Market rotating between city locations.
Sources: National Museums of Kenya, Sheldrick Wildlife Trust
Daily Life in Nairobi: Transportation and Lifestyle
Daily life in Nairobi combines modern conveniences with unique African character. Understanding local transportation options and lifestyle practices will help newcomers adapt quickly to their new environment.
Getting Around the City
Matatus (minibuses) form the backbone of public transportation, serving over 3 million of the city's 4.5 million daily commuters. These colorfully decorated vehicles operate on fixed routes with fares typically ranging from KES 50 to 150 (USD 0.40–1.15) depending on distance and time of day. The Nairobi Commuter Rail transports 20,000 to 30,000 passengers daily and connects outer suburbs to the city center. The city has launched a Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) pilot on Route 111 connecting the CBD to Ngong Town, with €320 million in international funding secured for expansion. Ride-hailing apps like Uber, Bolt, and Little offer safe, convenient alternatives with fares starting around KES 300 for short trips.
Lifestyle and Cultural Considerations
Nairobi's lifestyle reflects its cosmopolitan character. The city offers excellent shopping malls including Westgate, The Hub Karen, Two Rivers, and Village Market, featuring international brands and local boutiques. Weekend markets at Kazuri and Maasai Market offer authentic crafts and cultural experiences. Traffic congestion during peak hours (7-9 AM and 5-8 PM) remains a significant challenge, with commutes that would normally take 20 minutes extending to over an hour. Many residents plan their schedules to avoid rush hour or work remotely when possible. The city enjoys a thriving restaurant scene with excellent options ranging from local Kenyan cuisine to international fine dining.
Sources: NaMATA, Digital Matatus
Cost of Living: Budgeting for Life in Nairobi
Nairobi offers a significantly lower cost of living compared to major Western cities while maintaining access to quality goods and services. However, costs can vary dramatically depending on lifestyle choices and neighborhood preferences.
Monthly Budget for a Single Person
The following estimates cover essential expenses for a single professional living in a mid-range neighborhood:
Category | Monthly Cost (KES) | Monthly Cost (USD) |
Rent (1-bedroom, city) | 70,000–100,000 | 540–770 |
Utilities (electricity, water, internet) | 8,500–12,000 | 66–93 |
Groceries | 15,000–25,000 | 116–193 |
Transportation | 10,000–20,000 | 77–155 |
Health Insurance | 8,000–15,000 | 62–116 |
Total (Single Person) | 111,500–172,000 | 860–1,330 |
Monthly Budget for a Family of Four
Category | Monthly Cost (KES) | Monthly Cost (USD) |
Rent (3-bedroom house) | 150,000–250,000 | 1,160–1,935 |
Utilities | 15,000–25,000 | 116–193 |
Groceries | 35,000–50,000 | 270–387 |
Transportation | 25,000–40,000 | 193–310 |
School Fees (2 children, international) | 200,000–500,000 | 1,550–3,870 |
Health Insurance (family) | 25,000–40,000 | 193–310 |
Total (Family of Four) | 450,000–905,000 | 3,480–7,000 |
Sources: Numbeo 2025, Living Cost Index
In Short
Nairobi offers a compelling combination of professional opportunities, affordable living, and extraordinary lifestyle experiences that few cities can match. Whether you're drawn by career prospects in East Africa's economic hub, the chance to raise a family with wildlife at your doorstep, or the appeal of a welcoming international community, Kenya's capital delivers on multiple fronts. The city's strong infrastructure, quality international schools, diverse neighborhoods, and year-round pleasant climate make settling in straightforward for newcomers willing to embrace its unique rhythm. From morning game drives in Nairobi National Park to evening sundowners overlooking the savanna, life here offers adventure alongside all the modern conveniences you need.
Ready to connect with others who've made the move? Join the Nairobi forum on Expat.com to ask questions, share experiences, and become part of our welcoming community of international residents in Kenya.
We do our best to provide accurate and up to date information. However, if you have noticed any inaccuracies in this content, please contact us.
