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Kenya

Cost of Living in Nairobi

Find out if you can afford to live in Nairobi. Calculate your expenses for rent, food, transport & more. Get a personalized affordability report.

$550
Rent
$200
Food
$40
Transport
$60
Utilities

Cost Breakdown in Nairobi

Rent Analysis

The average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment in the city center of Nairobi is approximately $550 per month.

$550
average monthly rent

Salary Comparison

See how your salary stacks up against the cost of living in Nairobi.

Recommended salary
$2,500
monthly before tax

Total Monthly Cost

Average lifestyle, single person

$850/mo

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Currency
$
$500$5,000$30,000
Adults
1
Children
0

Tips to Save Money in Nairobi

Consider living slightly outside the city center to save 20-40% on rent.

Cook at home and use local markets for fresh, affordable produce.

Use public transportation instead of ride-sharing services.

Look for shared housing or co-living spaces to reduce costs.

Take advantage of free cultural events and outdoor activities.

🏥 Healthcare in Nairobi

Nairobi offers both public and private healthcare options for residents and expats. Private health insurance typically costs between $50–$150/month and provides comprehensive coverage including doctor visits, specialist consultations, and emergency care. Many international workers opt for private insurance to ensure faster access to English-speaking doctors.

🌐 Internet & Coworking in Nairobi

Nairobi has reliable high-speed internet with average speeds of 50–200 Mbps. Home broadband typically costs $30–$60/month. For digital nomads and remote workers, coworking spaces range from $100–$300/month for a hot desk. Many cafés also offer strong WiFi, making Nairobi a productive base for remote work.

🛂 Visa & Immigration for Nairobi

Visa requirements for Nairobi depend on your nationality and purpose of stay. Many countries now offer digital nomad visas for remote workers with minimum income requirements. Always check the latest immigration rules for Kenya before planning your move. Consider consulting an immigration specialist for personalized advice.

🔒 Safety in Nairobi

Nairobi is generally considered safe for expats and tourists. As with any major city, exercise standard precautions: be aware of your surroundings, avoid poorly lit areas at night, and keep valuables secure. Petty theft (pickpocketing) can occur in tourist areas, so stay vigilant in crowded spaces.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the average cost of living in Nairobi?
The average monthly cost of living in Nairobi for a single person is approximately $850, including rent, food, transport, and utilities.
Is Nairobi expensive to live in?
With a cost index of 0.44, Nairobi is more affordable than average compared to other major cities worldwide.
What salary do I need to live comfortably in Nairobi?
To live comfortably in Nairobi, you would need a monthly salary of at least $2,500 before tax.
How much is rent in Nairobi?
The average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment in Nairobi's city center is approximately $550 per month.
What do software engineers earn in Nairobi?
Software engineers in Nairobi earn an estimated $7,372 gross per month (approximately $5,529 after tax). This is based on a US median of $9,500/mo scaled by Nairobi's cost-of-living index (0.44x).
What are the highest-paying jobs in Nairobi?
The highest-paying jobs in Nairobi include Doctor/Physician (~$12,416/mo), Surgeon (~$17,072/mo), Investment Banker (~$9,312/mo), Software Engineer (~$7,372/mo), and Dentist (~$10,088/mo). All figures are gross monthly estimates adjusted for local cost of living.
Is Nairobi a good place for digital nomads?
Nairobi is a popular digital nomad destination thanks to its affordable cost of living and growing remote-work infrastructure. With monthly living costs around $850, it offers excellent value for remote workers earning in USD or EUR.
How much does food cost per month in Nairobi?
A single person spending an average on food in Nairobi can expect to pay around $200 per month. This includes groceries for home cooking and occasional restaurant meals. Eating out frequently at mid-range restaurants can push this figure higher.
What are the transport costs in Nairobi?
Monthly transport costs in Nairobi average around $40 per person. This typically covers a monthly transit pass or equivalent commuting expenses. Owning a car will significantly increase this figure due to insurance, fuel, and parking.
How much are utilities in Nairobi?
Monthly utility bills (electricity, heating/cooling, water, and garbage) in Nairobi average $60 for a standard apartment. Costs vary seasonally — expect higher bills in winter or summer depending on the climate.
What is the tax rate in Nairobi?
The effective income tax rate for a mid-income earner in Kenya is approximately 25%. This is a simplified estimate — actual rates depend on your specific income level, filing status, and any applicable deductions or credits. Consult a local tax advisor for personalized guidance.
How does Nairobi compare to other cities for cost of living?
Nairobi has a cost-of-living index of 0.44x the US average. It's one of the more affordable major cities globally, making it attractive for budget-conscious expats and digital nomads.

Job Salaries in Nairobi

Estimated gross monthly salaries for popular professions in Nairobi, adjusted for local cost of living (index: 0.44x US average).

Software Engineer
$7,372
gross/mo
Data Scientist
$6,984
gross/mo
Doctor / Physician
$12,416
gross/mo
Nurse
$5,044
gross/mo
Financial Analyst
$5,432
gross/mo
Teacher
$3,725
gross/mo
Marketing Manager
$5,044
gross/mo
Civil Engineer
$5,432
gross/mo

* Estimates are based on US median salaries adjusted for Nairobi's cost index. Actual salaries vary by employer, experience, and industry. Use the search below to find real open positions.

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Help others planning to move to Nairobi

Data Methodology: Cost of living data is based on crowdsourced statistics and government sources including Numbeo, OECD, and national statistics offices as of 2026. Actual costs may vary based on lifestyle, neighborhood, and personal circumstances. Salary estimates are derived from US median salaries adjusted by local cost-of-living indices. This tool is for informational purposes and should not be used as the sole basis for financial decisions. Learn more about our methodology →

Last updated: May 2026

Nairobi · $850/mo

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