Cost of Living in Nairobi-- food, hosing, rent, security, transportation

An expat’s cost of living in Kenya will certainly be less than they would be paying in Europe or North America, but is still higher in some respects than many would expect. It is important to remember that certain amenities expats will need access to – such as private healthcare, international schools and comfortable homes with security – can inflate the cost of living in Kenya tremendously.

Furthermore, expats will find themselves having to account for additional living expenses that they wouldn’t incur back home, such as the cost of drinking water and a security guard or driver.

However, depending on an expat's contract of employment, many find that some of the most expensive costs of living Kenya are covered by their employers. In many cases, the company will provide an allowance for accommodation, transportation and international school fees. Expats should try their best to negotiate these allowances into their expat packages.

Cost of accommodation in Kenya

Expats living in Kenya will find that accommodation will be their biggest expense. Luckily, for some, this will be taken care of by the employer.

The majority of expats opt to rent property in Kenya as they tend to have a fixed-term contract and don’t plan on settling in the country for the long-term. Naturally, rent in cities such as Nairobi and Mombasa will be higher than in more rural locations. Rent varies between KSH 90,000 per month and KSH 200,000 depending on the size of the property.

It is important to note that security needs to be in the forefront of one’s mind when choosing where to live and this needs to be factored into the cost of accommodation. Most expats opt to live in a secure gated community for peace of mind and this type of accommodation can cost as much as property in Europe would. Furthermore, rent in "safe expat areas" such as Rosslyn, Spring Valley and Wetlands in Nairobi, are much higher.

Younger expats, who move to Kenya to spend a year volunteering, often find cheaper, shared accommodation. The standard of this type of accommodation will, however, be very basic.
 

Cost of groceries in Kenya

It often comes as a surprise to new arrivals that the cost of food, basic housing products and electrical appliances in Kenya is fairly high. It is important to note that most of these goods are imported and therefore highly taxed.

There are a number of supermarket chains in Kenya, such as Nakumat, Uchimu and Chandara, where shoppers can buy anything from dairy products to mattresses, furniture, alcohol and electronics.  Many imported food produce such as cheeses, jams, chocolate, oils and pasta can also be found.

The best way to save money on groceries in Kenya is by buying local produce. Because of its wonderful climate, expats will find that fruit and vegetables sold at local markets are always good quality, and far cheaper than what one would pay at a supermarket.

The cost of transportation in Kenya

Although public transport in Kenya, such as matatus, buses and trains are incredibly cheap to use, the fact is that most expats do not utilise these modes of transport which are usually uncomfortable and inefficient. Furthermore, while the cost of transport is cheap in relation to expat wages, prices fluctuate all the time as there are no government regulations.

When it comes to getting around Kenya, the majority of expats will either hire or buy a car and find a local driver to take them around. However, buying a car can be expensive, as almost all cars in Kenya are imported and heavily taxed. In addition, for those wanting to travel nationally in Kenya, a four-by-four is the best option but will be more expensive than a regular vehicle.

Having a local driver is an asset. They tend to have better knowledge of the roads and driving conditions, and effectively save expats from having to contend with the tough driving conditions in Kenya. The fee for a driver is relatively minimal.

The cost of eating out and entertainment in Kenya

There is no shortage of options when it comes to eating out in Kenyan cities. Most Western restaurants are located in expat areas and tend to serve dishes made with imported ingredients, so prices are higher. For expats who are keen to try local Kenyan foods, plenty of establishments can be found selling healthy portions for next to nothing.

The nightlife and entertainment scene in Kenya’s big cities is growing with modern clubs and bars popping up all the time. However, entrance and drink costs at these type of places can be fairly expensive, keeping them out of reach from most average Kenyans. However, for those looking to enjoy a local beer, there are plenty of small bars in every Kenyan town where one can have a drink while watching the sunset without paying a fortune.