If you’re thinking about moving to Kenya to live as an expat, you’ve come to the right place. This guide to moving to Kenya is here to help you every step of the way.
Whether you’re a member of the general public looking for a new start, a landowner interested in opportunities, or an investor eyeing the market, I’ll walk you through what you need to know.
Kenya is a great place to live, with its mix of adventure and everyday life. Let’s get started on your guide to moving to Kenya.
Overview of Kenya’s Attractions and Challenges
When you decide to live in Kenya or are moving to Kenya, you’ll find a country full of attractions. Kenya has beautiful beaches along the Indian Ocean, such as those in Mombasa, where you can relax by the sea.
Wildlife safaris in places like the Maasai Mara let you see animals such as lions and elephants up close.
Vibrant cities like Nairobi offer modern life with shops and restaurants. These make living in Kenya exciting.
But there are challenges too. Traffic in Nairobi can be heavy, making commutes long. Power outages happen, so a backup generator is helpful.
Other issues include water shortages in dry areas.
Pros of living in Kenya:
– Low cost of living
– Friendly people
– Natural beauty
Cons of Living in Kenya:
– Traffic jams
– Occasional power cuts
– Urban crime in some spots
The climate varies. Coastal areas are hot and humid, with temperatures around 28°C year-round. Highlands like Nairobi are even more incredible, with temperatures of about 20-25°C.
Rainy seasons are from March to May and from October to December. For first-time visitors moving to Kenya, start with a short trip to Nairobi to get a feel for life.
To help visualize, here’s a map of Kenya showing major cities and attractions.
This guide to moving to Kenya will cover more to make your transition smooth.
Population Details, Major Cities, and Historical Background
Kenya had a population of about 58 million people in 2026. It’s home to 42 indigenous communities, adding to its rich mix.
Major cities include Nairobi, the capital, with over 5 million people, known for its tech scene called Silicon Savannah.
Mombasa, on the coast, has around 1.2 million residents and a long history as a trade port. Other cities, like Kisumu and Nakuru, are growing rapidly.
Kenya’s history begins with British colonial rule from 1895 to 1963. Independence came in 1963, led by Jomo Kenyatta.
The country has grown since, with urban areas expanding. Demographics show a young population, with many under 25.
This guide to moving to Kenya includes understanding this background to help you live in Kenya better.
Here’s another map highlighting cities.
Number of Expats and Survey Rankings
Many expats choose to live in Kenya. There are about 30,000 British expats in Kenya, and the total expat community is larger, including people from Europe, Asia, and the US. Expats in Kenya often join communities in Nairobi and Mombasa.
In surveys, Kenya ranks well for expats. In the 2025 InterNations Expat Insider survey, Kenya is 16th out of 46 countries for ease of settling in and quality of life. Expats say locals are friendly, and social integration is easy.
Testimonials from expats highlight the welcoming nature of the country, making it a top spot for those moving to Kenya to live.
Safety Concerns
Safety is key when you live in Kenya or are moving to Kenya. Kenya is generally safe for expats, but be aware of risks. Terrorism has occurred, such as attacks by al-Shabaab near the border with Somalia.
Avoid those areas. Crime like theft is common in cities, with Nairobi having higher rates, over half of residents experience incidents each year.
For safety, live in secure neighborhoods, use trusted taxis, and avoid walking alone at night. Emergency contacts: Police 999, ambulance 999.
Get health insurance that covers evacuation. Neighborhood ratings show places like Karen in Nairobi are safer for expats.
Political Situation
Kenya’s political situation is stable. The government focuses on Vision 2030, a plan to make Kenya a middle-income country by 2030.
It includes economic growth through infrastructure and tech. Recent elections were peaceful, and Vision 2030 updates show progress, with 4.7% GDP growth in 2024. For expats moving to Kenya, this means good business opportunities.
Languages Spoken
English is widely spoken in Kenya, making it easy for expats to live there. It’s the official language for business and schools.
Swahili/English is the national language and is used daily. Learn basic Swahili phrases like “hello” (jambo) and “thank you” (asante), apps like Duolingo help.
Etiquette includes greeting people politely. This guide to moving to Kenya suggests practicing Swahili for better integration.
COVID-19 Handling
Kenya handled COVID-19 well post-pandemic. By 2026, vaccination rates are around 44 doses per 100 people, with over 23 million doses given.
Health responses included lockdowns and vaccines. Travel rules now require proof of vaccination for some.
Compared to global standards, Kenya’s life expectancy is 63 years, with good access to private health care. For expats moving to Kenya, get vaccinated and follow local rules to live in Kenya safely.
Specific Expat Locations and Neighborhoods
If you’re planning to live in Kenya as an expat, choosing the correct location is essential for a smooth start. Popular areas to live in Kenya for expats include Nairobi suburbs such as Karen and Runda.
Karen stands out with its large green spaces, high security, and amenities such as shops, restaurants, and international schools.
It’s a quiet area with big homes, perfect for families who want to live in Kenya away from the busy city center.
Runda offers gated communities with 24-hour security, modern houses, and easy access to the United Nations offices in Gigiri, making it ideal for diplomats and professionals moving to Kenya.
Other great neighborhoods in Nairobi for expats include Lavington, known for its modern convenience and mix of apartments and villas, popular among young professionals.
Kilimani has a trendy vibe with cafes and malls, while Westlands is vibrant with nightlife and business hubs, attracting expats who work in the city.
Gigiri is secure and international, home to embassies and the UN, and Muthaiga is historic and affluent with large estates.
In Mombasa, Nyali is favored for its beach access, relaxed lifestyle, and proximity to the ocean, great for those who want to live in Kenya by the coast.
Rental trends show that a 3-bedroom apartment or house in Nairobi’s suburbs, such as Karen or Runda, costs between $900 and $1,200 per month, depending on the exact location and features.
In upscale areas, you might pay up to $1,500 for luxury options with pools and gardens. For expats in Kenya, these neighborhoods offer safety, community, and convenience, with many having expat groups for social events.
This guide to moving to Kenya recommends visiting these areas before you decide to live in Kenya, take a short trip to walk around and talk to locals or other expats. It helps you determine if the spot fits your lifestyle, whether you’re a landowner looking for investment spots or an investor eyeing rental properties.
Buying Property as an Expat
When you decide to live in Kenya and are moving to Kenya as an expat, buying property can be a wise choice for long-term stability. Foreigners can purchase property in Kenya, but only on 99-year leases, not freehold ownership, which is reserved for Kenyan citizens.
This lease is renewable, and you can sell or transfer it during the term. The process starts with getting approval from the Ministry of Lands and Physical Planning.
You need to submit documents such as your passport, proof of funds, and a detailed plan for the property’s use.
Costs include stamp duty at 4% for urban areas or 2% for rural ones, based on the property value.
Add legal fees around 1-2% of the value, registration fees of about KSh 500-1,000, and valuation fees. For example, on a $100,000 property in Nairobi, stamp duty could be $4,000. Pros of buying:
Potential for investment growth, as property values in areas like Nairobi are rising with economic development. Cons: Legal hurdles and the need for due diligence to check for debts or disputes.
This guide to moving to Kenya suggests working with experts to avoid issues. For help, contact Chepchieng and Company Advocates, they specialize in property for expats moving to Kenya and can handle approvals, contracts, and registrations.
As landowners or investors, you’ll find their services make buying smoother, ensuring you comply with all rules to live in Kenya securely. Many expats in Kenya choose to buy rather than rent for long-term benefits, especially in growing cities like Nairobi and Mombasa.
Top Expat Tips
Hey, if you’re getting ready to live in Kenya as an expat, here are some top tips to make things go smoothly. This guide to moving to Kenya includes a detailed checklist for relocation:
1. Apply for your visa or work permit at least 3 months ahead, delays can happen, so start early.
2. Research schools 6 months before if you have kids; international options in Nairobi fill up fast.
3. Pack essentials like medications, as some might not be easy to find right away.
4. Get health insurance before you arrive; it’s key for private healthcare access.
5. Arrange housing in advance—visit expat neighborhoods or use agents to secure a place.
6. Learn basic Swahili and cultural norms to integrate better.
7. Set up a bank account and M-Pesa for daily transactions.
8. Join expat groups on social media for advice and friendships.
9. Prepare for safety by choosing secure areas and avoiding risks.
10. Budget for upfront costs like three months’ rent.
These tips help you live in Kenya smoothly, whether you’re a member of the general public starting fresh, a landowner managing properties, or an investor exploring opportunities.
Many expats say networking with others who have moved helps a lot. This guide to moving to Kenya is your friend in planning, follow it, and you’ll settle in faster.
Detailed Work Visa Types
To live and work in Kenya as an expat, you need the proper permit or visa. This guide to moving to Kenya breaks down the main types.
The Class A permit is for investors or those in mining and prospecting. It requires proof of investment funds of at least USD 100,000 and costs KSh 500,000 per year, plus a KSh 20,000 processing fee.
The Class D permit is for skilled workers with a job offer from a Kenyan employer. You need professional qualifications and an employment contract. Fees are KSh 500,000 yearly, with KSh 20,000 for processing.
For digital nomads, the new Class N permit allows remote work with an annual income of at least USD 24,000 earned outside Kenya. It costs USD 1,000 per year, plus a USD 200 processing fee.
Apply online via the eFNS portal, including your passport, cover letter, and proof of skills. Processing takes 2-4 months, so plan when moving to Kenya.
This makes it easier to live in Kenya and start working. Other types include Class G for entrepreneurs and Class I for missionaries, each with specific requirements.
Banking and Finance
Setting up a bank account is straightforward for expats living in Kenya. To open a bank account, bring your passport and visa; most banks also require proof of residence.
The currency is the Kenyan Shilling (KES), and fees for basic services are generally low. For expats, compare banks like Equity Bank, known for affordable services; Standard Chartered, suitable for international transfers; KCB, with strong mobile options; and I&M Bank, offering premium banking.
Use M-Pesa for mobile banking; it’s a must in Kenya for paying bills, sending money, and shopping. Register with your SIM card to transfer up to KSh 150,000 daily.
This guide to moving to Kenya suggests starting with M-Pesa for quick transactions while you set up a complete account.
It’s secure and widely used, making daily life easier for expats in Kenya. For investors or landowners, these banks offer business accounts with forex services.
Healthcare
Healthcare in Kenya offers public and private options, but private care is better for expats who want to live comfortably.
Public hospitals provide free basic care for conditions like colds or minor issues, but they can be understaffed and short on supplies. Private hospitals like Aga Khan in Nairobi or Mombasa offer high-quality care with modern equipment.
Life expectancy in Kenya is around 67 years. Costs for a doctor visit range from $20 to $50 in private clinics, while hospital stays can be $100 to $500 per day without insurance.
Get health insurance, it’s essential, as private care is expensive out-of-pocket. Plans for expats cost $1,000- $ 1,700 per year for comprehensive coverage.
Vaccinations required include yellow fever (required for entry), hepatitis A and B, typhoid, and routine vaccines such as polio and tetanus.
For rural areas, add rabies and meningitis. This guide to moving to Kenya advises checking with a doctor before you move there. Private options make healthcare reliable for expats in Kenya, especially in cities like Nairobi.
Culture and Customs
When you live in Kenya or are moving to Kenya as an expat, understanding the culture and customs will help you fit in and enjoy your time here. Kenya has 42 indigenous communities, each with its own customs and traditions, making the country diverse and interesting.
For example, the Maasai in the south practice warrior dances and beadwork, while the Swahili on the coast follow customs influenced by Arab and Indian cultures, including modest dress and family gatherings.
In rural areas, it’s best to dress modestly, women should cover their shoulders and knees, and men should avoid shorts in some places.
Always carry your ID, as police might ask for it. Some dos include greeting elders first and using polite language.
Don’ts include public displays of affection, which are uncommon, especially in conservative areas.
Regional variations exist, such as the coastal Swahili culture, which focuses on seafood dishes and Islamic holidays, and the highland Kikuyu traditions, which emphasize community events.
This guide to moving to Kenya suggests learning a few local customs to make it easier to make friends. Expats often join cultural events to integrate.
For instance, shaking hands is a standard greeting, and people stand close when talking. Kenya’s culture is friendly and social, so smile and say hello. Living in Kenya means embracing this mix, which makes it rewarding.
Comprehensive Moving Checklist
If you’re moving to Kenya to live in Kenya as an expat, a good checklist keeps things organized. This guide to moving to Kenya has a step-by-step plan to make your relocation easy.
1. Get your visa or permit to live in Kenya-apply early, as it can take 2-4 months. Check types like work permits or investor visas.
2. Research and book flights-aim for off-peak times to save money.
3. Ship your belongings-costs for a container from the US are $2,000-5,000. Use international movers and declare items at customs.
4. For pets, get health certificates, vaccinations, and microchips. Airlines have rules, and quarantine might apply.
5. Arrange temporary housing-book a hotel or Airbnb for the first weeks while you find a place.
6. Pack essentials-bring medications, important documents, and adapters for Kenya’s plugs.
7. Notify banks and set up international transfers.
8. Once there, open a local bank account and get a SIM card for M-Pesa.
9. Register with your embassy and get health insurance.
10. Settle in: Find schools if you have kids, join expat groups, and explore your neighborhood.
This makes living in Kenya smoother for the general public, landowners, and investors.
Geographic Overview
Kenya’s varied geography makes it a great place to live, whether you’re already there or moving there. It has mountains like Mount Kenya at 5,199 meters, beautiful beaches along the Indian Ocean coast, and vast savannas teeming with wildlife.
Kenya borders Uganda to the west, Tanzania to the south, Somalia to the east, Ethiopia to the north, and South Sudan to the northwest.
The Great Rift Valley runs through it, creating lakes and volcanoes. The north is dry with low rainfall, around 500mm yearly, while the south and coast are wetter, up to 2,000mm.
The charts show two rainy seasons: March to May and October to December. This guide to moving to Kenya notes that Nairobi’s high altitude keeps it cooler, about 20-25°C.
For expats, knowing this helps them choose where to live in Kenya, such as coastal Mombasa for beaches or the central highlands for milder weather.
Cultural Diversity
With 42 indigenous communities, Kenya is very diverse, and that’s a big part of why people love living there.
Groups like the Kikuyu, Luo, and Kalenjin each have unique languages, foods, and traditions.
Festivals bring everyone together, like Mashujaa Day on October 20, celebrating heroes with parades and music.
Integration tips for expats moving to Kenya: Join local events, learn basic Swahili, and try foods from different groups.
This guide to moving to Kenya says attending festivals like the Lake Turkana Cultural Festival helps you connect. For families, it’s a chance to teach kids about unity in diversity while living in Kenya.
Social Infrastructure Details
Kenya’s social infrastructure supports residents, especially expats. Private hospitals like Aga Khan in Nairobi offer top care, with rankings placing them on par with international standards.
International schools, such as the International School of Kenya, follow IB or British curricula and have high satisfaction rates among families.
Transport includes matatus (minibuses) for cheap rides, about $0.50 per trip, and trains like the SGR from Nairobi to Mombasa.
Family life ranks well, with parks and communities making it suitable for kids. This guide to moving to Kenya highlights that Nairobi offers the best options, but costs add up, school fees can reach $10,000 per year.
Connectivity
By 2026, broadband will cover about 90% of urban areas in Kenya, making it easier to live in Kenya and stay connected.
The Silicon Savannah in Nairobi is a tech hub, with hubs like Konza Technopolis. Internet speeds average 20-50 Mbps in cities, suitable for work or streaming.
For expats moving to Kenya, get a local SIM for data; M-Pesa apps handle payments too.
This guide to moving to Kenya notes that rural areas have less coverage, so choose urban spots if you need fast internet.
Landscape and Weather
Kenya’s landscapes vary from deserts in the north to forests in the west and beaches on the coast.
Ecosystems include savannas with wildlife and mountains for hiking. Weather patterns: The dry seasons from June to October are best for travel, with less rain and clearer skies.
Travel tips for living in Kenya: Visit during the dry seasons to avoid mud on roads. Pack layers for cool evenings. This guide to moving to Kenya suggests exploring national parks first, wildlife is easier to spot there.
Natural Beauty and Urban Contrasts
Kenya’s natural beauty shines through safaris near cities like Nairobi, where you can see lions in Nairobi National Park against a backdrop of skyscrapers. Day trips to places like Hell’s Gate or Mount Longonot offer hiking and views.
This guide to moving to Kenya recommends these for expats—contrast urban life in Nairobi with nature escapes. Living in Kenya means easy access to both.
Family Entertainment
For families living in Kenya, kid-friendly spots include the Giraffe Centre in Nairobi, where children can feed giraffes, and museums like the National Museum, which features exhibits on history. Parks like Uhuru Park offer picnics and boat rides.
Budgets: A family outing costs about $50, including entry and snacks. This guide to moving to Kenya says these are great for bonding while exploring.
Exotic Food and Dining
Try nyama choma, grilled meat, often goat or beef, seasoned simply and eaten with ugali. International options in Nairobi include Italian or Indian restaurants. Recipes: Marinate the beef with salt, then grill slowly.
Here’s nyama choma:
This guide to moving to Kenya suggests trying local spots for authentic tastes.
Art, Culture, and Entertainment
Nairobi has galleries like the Nairobi Gallery showcasing modern art, music events such as concerts at the Kenya National Theatre, and literature festivals. Events in 2026 include the Nairobi Art Fair.
Living in Kenya means enjoying these, join for fun and networking.
Education System
Kenya’s education system is 2-6-3-3: pre-primary, primary, junior secondary, and senior secondary. International schools in Nairobi follow British or IB curricula, enroll early, as spots fill up.
Fees: $5,000-15,000 yearly. This guide to moving to Kenya helps families plan their move.
Transport Options
Airports like Jomo Kenyatta in Nairobi handle international flights. Trains: SGR from Nairobi to Mombasa costs $10-30. Buses and matatus for local trips, $0.50-$5. Drive on the left; use apps like Uber for rides, $2-5 in cities.
Average cost of living in Kenya for expats: $800 monthly for a single in Nairobi, including rent ($300-500), food ($200), and transport ($50). This guide to moving to Kenya covers the basics for smooth travel.
Conclusion
As you wrap up this guide to moving to Kenya, remember that choosing to live there as an expat opens the door to adventure, growth, and new opportunities.
From the wildlife and beaches to the vibrant culture and economy, Kenya offers a unique lifestyle that’s rewarding for the general public, landowners, and investors alike. If challenges like safety or politics arise, preparation from this guide to moving to Kenya will help you handle them.
For any legal needs, such as visas or property matters, reach out to Chepchieng and Company Advocates, they’re experts in supporting expats moving to Kenya. Start your journey today and enjoy living in Kenya!
FAQs
Is Kenya a good place to live?
Yes, Kenya is a good place to live for many expats, with its natural beauty, like beaches and wildlife safaris, friendly people, and growing economy under Vision 2030. The average cost of living in Kenya is affordable, around $800 monthly for a single expat in Nairobi, including rent, food, and transport. However, challenges include traffic, power outages, and safety concerns in some areas. Overall, if you choose secure neighborhoods and adapt to the culture, living in Kenya can be fulfilling.
Can a foreigner live in Kenya?
Yes, a foreigner can live in Kenya with the proper permit or visa. Options include work permits for jobs, investor permits for business, or retiree visas. This guide to moving to Kenya explains the process: apply via the eFNS portal with documents such as your passport. Chepchieng and Company Advocates can help with applications to make moving to Kenya easier.
Where to invest KSh 50,000 in Kenya?
With KSh 50,000, you can invest in Kenya through options like Treasury Bonds via the Central Bank of Kenya’s Dhow CSD, which start at KSh 50,000 and offer stable returns. Other ideas include Money Market Funds (MMFs) for low-risk growth, or REITs like the Acorn Student Accommodation I-REIT, available through platforms such as Vuka Investment Club, where KSh 50,000 gets you into real estate with rental income. For investors moving to Kenya, these are great starts. Consult experts for current rates.
Which is the best town to live in Kenya?
The best town to live in Kenya for expats is often Nairobi, with its tech hub, international schools, and neighborhoods like Karen and Runda offering security and amenities. Mombasa is another top choice for coastal living, with beaches and a relaxed vibe in areas like Nyali. It depends on your preferences, Nairobi for business, Mombasa for leisure. This guide to moving to Kenya recommends visiting to make the decision.
What is the average cost of living in Kenya?
The average cost of living for expats in Kenya is about $800-1,200 per month in cities like Nairobi, covering rent ($300-500 for a one-bedroom), food ($200), transport ($50), and utilities. In Mombasa, it might be slightly lower. For families, add school fees. Living in Kenya is cheaper than in many Western countries, making it attractive to those moving there.
Is Kenya safe for expats?
Kenya is generally safe for expats who live in secure areas, such as gated communities in Nairobi or Mombasa, and who follow precautions, such as avoiding isolated areas at night. Terrorism risks exist near borders, and petty crime occurs in cities, but with health insurance and awareness, many expats live in Kenya comfortably. This guide to moving to Kenya includes safety tips to help you settle in.
