91 cities covered · Currency: KES (KSh) · Capital: Nairobi
| Expense | Estimated cost | Basis |
|---|---|---|
| Meal at an inexpensive restaurant | KSh574 ($4.45) | per meal |
| Three-course meal for two, mid-range | KSh2,297 ($17.81) | per meal |
| Cappuccino | KSh172 ($1.34) | each |
| Monthly groceries (single person) | KSh13,018 ($101) | per month |
| Monthly public transport pass | KSh2,106 ($16.32) | per month |
| Basic utilities for an 85m² apartment | KSh5,552 ($43.04) | per month |
| Internet (60 Mbps, unlimited) | KSh1,608 ($12.47) | per month |
| Fitness club membership | KSh1,608 ($12.47) | per month |
| Cinema ticket | KSh421 ($3.26) | each |
| One-bedroom apartment in city centre | KSh23,934 ($186) | per month |
| One-bedroom apartment outside centre | KSh16,650 ($129) | per month |
| Three-bedroom apartment in city centre | KSh49,949 ($387) | per month |
Nairobi City · pop. 5,545,000
Mombasa · pop. 1,388,449
Nakuru · pop. 570,674
Uasin Gishu · pop. 477,716
Kisumu · pop. 397,957
Garissa · pop. 218,873
Turkana · pop. 200,000
Wajir · pop. 174,134
Kajiado · pop. 172,570
Garissa · pop. 163,399
Trans Nzoia · pop. 162,169
Nakuru · pop. 156,732
Kajiado · pop. 154,436
Kiambu · pop. 147,870
Mandera · pop. 143,850
Kilifi · pop. 122,899
Kisii · pop. 112,417
Kajiado · pop. 102,323
Kakamega · pop. 99,987
Nyeri · pop. 98,908
Kakamega · pop. 91,778
Wajir · pop. 90,116
Kiambu · pop. 83,000
Turkana · pop. 82,970
Side-by-side cost of living comparison in Kenya
Side-by-side cost of living comparison in Kenya
Side-by-side cost of living comparison in Kenya
Side-by-side cost of living comparison in Kenya
Living costs in Kenya vary significantly depending on city size. Large metropolitan areas with populations over one million typically see housing costs 15–30% above the national average, while smaller towns can be 10–20% below it. The national baseline of KSh54,937 ($426) per month represents a mid-sized city estimate.
Capital cities and major economic hubs command the highest rents and overall expenses. For budget-conscious residents, mid-sized cities offer a balance of amenities and affordability. Rural and small-town living remains the most economical option, though transport and service access may be limited.