Kenya is a blessed country with beautiful natural scenery, a rich cultural heritage, and welcoming people. Renowned for its bustling towns and a vibrant economy, the country offers a ton of possibilities for citizens and foreign expatriates to live, work, and invest.
Kenya offers beautiful and diverse towns ideal for establishing a home, from the leafy suburbs of Nanyuki, the coastal towns of Diani and Mombasa, to the serene lakeside town of Kisumu.
With so many cities, each with its own unique features and benefits, how do you choose the right one? Here are 12 of the best towns in Kenya to live, work, and call home.
1. Nairobi
Nairobi is Kenya’s capital city. The name is derived from a Maasai phrase, e nai’ robe, which means ‘a place of cool waters’ which refers to the Nairobi River. The city was first established as a railroad camp for construction workers in the late 1890s. According to the 2019 National Census, about 4.3 million people live in Nairobi.
Most high-income earners live in the city, although the majority of people are middle-class. The many middle-class estates vary by neighborhood, distance from the Central Business District (CBD), and the amenities available.
The bigger, luxurious homes are located mostly to the west in Karen, Langata, Gigiri, and Muthaiga where the earliest colonialists first settled. Other middle and high-income estates include Parklands, Westlands, Hurlingham, Kilimani, Spring Valley, Lavington, Rosslyn, Kitisuru, and Nairobi Hill.
Nairobi has good weather and beautiful people. While the majority of the population speaks English and Swahili, the cosmopolitan city is racially and culturally diverse, with a ton of restaurants catering to every type of cuisine – Japanese, Chinese, Thai, Italian, Ethiopian, American, among others.
Most foreign expats moving to Kenya will be surprised to find that Nairobi is the only city in the world with a national park. There is also an urban forest known as Karura with numerous nature trails for picnic and vacation enthusiasts. The Park and Forest are popular with foreigners and the middle-class population who love jogging and excursions.
With a plethora of sporting grounds and recreational facilities around its suburbs, your golfing, jogging, tennis, soccer, and padel ball needs are duly catered for. There are also shopping malls, museums, movie theatres, and other cultural places for entertainment and catching up with the country’s history, its people, and so much more.
Nairobi is also home to a wide range of schools, both public and private, including international schools such as French, German, American, and British schools, and internationally recognized universities.
2. Mombasa
Mombasa is Kenya’s oldest city. The city began as a Portuguese empire to an imamate of Oman to the British, Sultanate of Muscat and Oman, to the Coastal Kenyan town we now know. The town is inhabited by about 1.2 million people, and the culture is predominantly Swahili.
Houses and apartments in Mombasa are mostly spacious and affordable, although some neighborhoods can attract a premium price. The middle-class population mainly live in Mbaraki, Mtwapa, Changamwe, Kizingo, Nyali, Tudor, Mikindani, Ganjoni, and Kibokoni. The cost of living for a family of 4 averages about KES 158000, although the cost increases as you move outside the town towards the resort urban centers.
Mombasa is home to museums, tourist resorts, and historical sites such as Fort Jesus and Gedi Ruins. There are also recreational facilities, five-star hotels, and pristine beaches such as Diani, Watamu, and Nyali, barely an hour’s drive from the city. If you are a golf enthusiast, you may visit the Nyali Golf Club or Vipingo Ridge in Kilifi to tee it off.
3. Nakuru
Nakuru is a rapidly growing town first established as part of the White Highlands by the British in colonial times. It first became a township in 1904, and a municipality by 1952. The town is one of the largest in the Rift Valley with a population of about 393000 people.
Compared to Nairobi, Nakuru’s cost of living is low in terms of transport, rent, and food. Most houses are privately owned, but you find an affordable two-bedroom to rent for as low as KES 10,000 in middle-income estates such as Section 58, Kiti, Langalanga, Pangani, Shabab, Bangladesh, Milimani, Lanet, Freehold, Free Area, Ngata, Bahati, London, and Afraha.
The town is free of snarling traffic jams and noise, and you visit the Nakuru National Park, Hells Gate, and the Menengai Crater to see a variety of wildlife from the famed flamingos, black rhinos, zebras, impalas, and buffalos.
Nakuru is also home to several public national schools and international schools such as Greensteds, St. Andrews Turi, Kipepeo, Mustard Seed, Melvin Jones Lions, and Pembroke House International schools.
The city has various shopping malls, chains of supermarkets, and reputable hotels including the Sarova Woodlands, Ziwa Bush Lodge, The Alps Hotel Nakuru, and Sarova Lion Hill Game Lodge. There are also sports grounds like the Afraha Stadium, Rift Valley Sports Club, and a motor racing track.
4. Kisumu
Kisumu is among the oldest settlements in Kenya. Formerly known as Port Florence, it was inhabited by diverse communities long before the British identified it as an alternative railway terminus and port of the Ugandan Railway. It became a city in 1996 and currently has a population of 400,000 people.
The city offers a unique blend of upper-mid to low-income residential homes, commercial malls, and more. The affluent live in estates such as Milimani and its environs, whereas the middle-income earners live in suburbs such as Kibos Estate, Kanyakwar, and Mamboleo, characterized by both high-rise and low-density houses.
Expats living in Kisumu and many other visitors enjoy various opportunities from education and business to agriculture. If you’re moving to Kisumu, expect to eat fresh fish from Lake Victoria any day you please. There are also various attractions to visit, including the Hippo Point, Kiboko Bay Resort, Dunga Hill Camp, Kisumu Impala Sanctuary, the Kisumu Museum, and various prestigious hotels and nightclubs.
Kisumu has modern road interchanges and a duo carriage highway connecting it to the nearby town of Kakamega. The town also has Kisumu International Airport for easy travel. For your shopping needs, you can get everything at Mega City Kisumu or the West End Shopping Mall.
5. Naivasha
Naivasha is a vibrant town in Nakuru County, famously known for hosting the 2021 edition of the World Rally Championship (WRC). Currently, it stands as one of the best horticultural urban centers in Kenya with a population of over 158000 people.
While the cost of living in Naivasha isn’t much different from Nakuru’s, restaurant prices are much higher, perhaps due to the huge influx of real estate projects and people buying up vacation homes around the lake. Additionally, the town has more expensive holiday homes.
Some middle-income earners prefer settling the Longonot Gate at the foot of Mount Longonot mainly due to the wildlife scenery nearby, hotels, lodgings, and camping sites. Food prices are cheap owing to the town’s proximity to the agricultural town of Nyandarua. Naivasha is ideal for those who want to live and work in a well-planned community, described as a town with leisure homes. Perfect for a holiday home or permanent settlement, it’s only a few hours’ drive away from Nairobi, and barely an hour to Nakuru.
Some of Kenya’s most spectacular tourist attractions are nestled in Naivasha. They include Lake Naivasha, Mt. Longonot, Mt. Suswa, and Hell’s Gate National Park, which The Lion King movie scenes such as Pride Rock and the Gorge are modeled after.
6. Diani
Diani lies 45 minutes south of Mombasa and is a sparkling jewel of Kenya’s mesmerizing coastal life. It first began as a fishing settlement for locals and was a quiet community before the European settlers developed the hospitality industry upon which the economy is heavily dependent on now. The resort town is inhabited by about 100,000 people.
Because it’s a holiday destination, the cost of living is relatively high. Most houses, from beachfront stand-alone houses to apartments and penthouses, are quite expensive. Owners are mostly wealthy Kenyans, resort owners, and expats who have taken up permanent residence in Diani. According to Knight Frank Kenya, a beachfront house may cost between KES 57 million and KES 78 million, while an apartment costs about KES. 17 million.
Diani is the perfect choice for wealthy Kenyans and foreigners moving to Kenya for retirement. The weather is warm and calm and the population multiracial, even though Swahili culture and coastal cuisines are predominant.
The town has Diani Airport, and with the completion of the Ndongo-Kundu bypass road from the SGR train station in Mariakani, travelers won’t have to use the Likoni ferry in Mombasa. This has significantly reduced traveling time to Diani by about 2 hours.
7. Eldoret
Known as the home of champions because of world-famous athletes, Eldoret is a bubbling industrial hub with rich agricultural resources and diverse culture. The town has a population of 475,700 people.
The cost of living in Eldoret is relatively cheaper compared to Nairobi or Mombasa. The most affluent neighborhood is Upper Elgon View where expats, wealthy Kenyans, and politicians from neighboring towns live. The middle-class mostly live in estates around Annex, Kapsoya, Milimani, West Indies, some parts of Langas, Mwanzo, Pioneer, and Peris.
Eldoret is a great destination for athletic enthusiasts, being home to the High-Altitude Training Center for athletes in Iten. The center hosts all the world’s top athletes every year. The town also serves as a mid-hub for trade between Kenya and other countries. Furthermore, it has reputable hotels, an international airport, public universities, and factories like Rivatex for clothing.
8. Thika
Thika is in Kiambu County, 42 kilometers Northeast of Nairobi. It is home to Chania Falls, Fourteen Falls on the Athi River, Thika Falls, and Ol Donyo Sabuk National Park. Thika is a vibrant industrial town with companies such as Del Monte Kenya and Bidco Oil Refineries.
The town hosts a diverse population of about 279429 in different neighborhoods. Rents are cheaper than in Nairobi. Some of the popular estates for the middle-class include Section A, Section 2, Section 9, Ngoingwa, Bahati Ridge, Muthaiga, and Muguga.
Thika is a convenient place to live, especially since the Thika Superhighway connects it to Nairobi and other parts of the country. Traveling to Nairobi is easy, and quite affordable, by car or by train. There is a commuter train service connecting Thika to Nairobi. It is also home to reputable international schools such as Safaricom Academy and Braeburn Schools.
Visitors and residents get to enjoy a bustling nightlife in clubs like Blend and The Garage Bar & Grill, and modern recreation centers like Thika Golf Club, and other significant retail trading operations.
9. Nanyuki
Nanyuki is synonymous with soldiers, coffee houses, and Mt. Kenya. It is Kenya’s main airbase of the Kenya Air Force and the British Army Training Unit Kenya. Situated North of the equator, the town is predominantly a market urban center. The town is inhabited by about 73,000 people.
The town offers scenic views of Mt. Kenya and the Aberdare Ranges to the South, and nature lovers can enjoy bird watching, game drives, and forest walks in conservancies such as Lewa Wildlife, Ol Pejeta, Sweet Waters, and Ol Jogi Wildlife Conservancy, and Sosian Game Ranch.
The town is rich in agricultural resources courtesy of extensive large-scale farms such as the Kisima, a highly productive, mixed working farm in Timau, which is 28 kilometers away from Nanyuki. It is also worth mentioning that Nanyuki and its environs has arguably the best beef in Kenya.
Besides holiday homes and camps around the town, there are good estates for middle-income earners such as the Mukima Development. The cost of living is relatively affordable, with restaurant prices 16 percent lower than in Nairobi. Groceries and other market products are also quite cheap.
10. Ruiru
Ruiru is a peaceful environment that gives off a rural feel, suitable for growing vegetables and keeping a few animals, even a fishpond if you prefer. It first began as a sisal and coffee-growing district before turning into a residential area. The town is inhabited by 490,120 people.
Due to the high number of people moving to Ruiru, the town is experiencing a housing boom as many coffee estates are converted to residential estates, including the multibillion Tatu City Estate. Ruiru is especially pocket-friendly for a middle-income family. Rental prices vary depending on the amenities provided as well as the size, the location, and its finishing.
For the food, groceries, and clothing purchases, there are not only stalls and supermarkets, but also an open market on Saturdays. Ruiru also happens to be the headquarters of the Brookside Diaries, the biggest dairy in East and Central Africa.
With the upcoming Northlands industrial city, Ruiru is bound to be a self-sufficient city ideal for anyone moving away from the hustle and bustle of Nairobi, but not too far from civilization.
11. Malindi
Malindi packs an assortment of resorts, vacation homes, recreational facilities, and a highly coveted beach life. You can engage in water sports, fishing, or simply spend time sightseeing. Like Mombasa, it has a long history from being a coastal trade hub to a modern tourist destination. The town is inhabited by about 119, 859 people.
The cost of buying or owning a home is significantly higher than in Mombasa town and will typically go as high as 70 million shillings. The town is quite close to Diani, Watamu, and Mombasa.
The resort town boasts pristine beaches, historical sites such as the Vasco Da Gama pillar, a diverse culture, and vibrant nightlife. It’s also a fishing town and a major supplier of tuna and red snapper. These are among the many reasons why some foreign expats and wealthy Kenyans move to Malindi. Plus, who wouldn’t want to be Naomi Campbell’s neighbor?
12. Machakos
Primarily settled by the Akamba people, Machakos is the oldest administrative municipality in East Africa and was the first administrative center for the British. The capital was shifted to Nairobi when the Uganda Railway passed the town.
The satellite urban center is close to Kenya’s capital. It is surrounded by hilly terrain and a high number of family farms. It is currently inhabited by about 31,971 persons.
Not only are people moving to Machakos from Nairobi due to relatively affordable rent prices and cost of living, but also to settle in a serene environment. Moreover, the region has reputable schools, plenty of investment opportunities in real estate, and recreational facilities.
Some popular places to live for the middle-class include Syokimau, parts of Mlolongo, and Athi River.
The Konza Technopolis, a high-tech city hub, is currently still under construction and it’s bound to elevate the city of Machakos to a whole new level. The infrastructure, connectivity, tech solutions, and the demand for professionals savvy with the city’s needs will make Machakos among the top destinations for living, working, or investing.
The new Machakos People’s Park offers a perfect venue for recreational activities for both adults and children. From slides, jogging trails, merry-go-rounds, and bouncing castles, your kids will ensure they enjoy their time in Machakos.
13. Isiolo
Isiolo town is situated in the upper eastern sub region and lies 285 kilometers north of Nairobi. The town is a cosmopolitan serving as the county headquarters with Boranas, Somalis, and Merus forming the largest chunk of residents. The total population stands at 268,002. The town hosts travelers as they commute between Marsabit and Moyale towns.
This arid, sparsely populated region has about 35 kilometers of paved roads and a modest airport serving the area. While basic infrastructure can be a challenge due to the low, semi-arid topography, the county is home to three national game reserves, offering ample opportunities for wildlife viewing.
If you are undaunted by the administrative hassles and remote setting of Isiolo, the town may hold appeal for you.
14. Kilifi
Kilifi is a beautiful place with pristine beaches and sunset views observed from the mooring floating restaurants in Mtwapa. It also hosts some of the best international schools in Kenya including Bridge International School, making it ideal for a family to settle down.
With the completion of the Northern bypass linking the Nairobi – Mombasa Road with the Mombasa – Malindi Road at Kwa Kadzego in Mtwapa, moving to Kilifi is no longer a challenge. The distance is even shorter since you don’t have to pass through Mombasa.
The county of Kilifi hosts historical sites as well as recreational facilities including:
- Malindi Marine National Park
- Watamu Marine National Park
- Arabuko Sokoke Forest Reserve
- Vasco Da Gama Pillar
15. Watamu
Watamu is one of the most beautiful places on Kenya’s coast. The coastal town boasts long stretches of white sandy beaches, vibrant marine life, and a rich cultural heritage. With historical sites like the Gede Ruins dating back to the 12th century, Watamu is steeped in rich cultural history. The local markets, crafts, and cuisine offer a taste of Kenya’s diverse culture and heritage.
With a growing expat community, Watamu is becoming increasingly popular among Kenyans and foreigners looking for a new place to settle. The quiet fishing village, Watamu offers peaceful mornings, fresh fish, stunning beaches, and great restaurants. Malindi is only around 45 minutes’ drive away.
16. Naro Moru
Naro Moru offers a serene lifestyle at the foothills of Mt. Kenya with stunning mountain views, cool weather, and a vibrant, agricultural community. The fast-expanding, peaceful town situated between Nyeri and Nanyuki is known for hiking, trout fishing, and eco-tourism.
It is about 20km from Nanyuki and 143km from Nairobi. The area features a mix of, modern, stylish cottages, and scenic plots with panoramic views of Mt. Kenya for residential development. Many homes are designed for indoor-outdoor living with large windows, fireplaces, and gardens.
Naro Moru is a growing town with local schools, hospitals, and hotels rapidly popping up. While the town is served by a railway line and is near Nanyuki airport, the roads are generally accessible.
17. Gilgil
Nestled between Nakuru and Naivasha, Gilgil is quickly becoming one of the most sought-after locations for investors and homeowners looking for a peaceful residential retreat, a thriving commercial space, or fertile land for agribusiness. The town offers:
- Reliable water and electricity supply
- Fertile soil, perfect for farming and agribusiness
- Fast-growing community with new developments
- All-weather roads for easy accessibility
- Surrounded by breathtaking landscapes and attractions
Located just 45 minutes from Nakuru and 30 minutes from Naivasha, Gilgil offers the perfect balance between vibrant city life and rural tranquility.
18. Soysambu
Soysambu offers a serene lifestyle alternative to city life 25km from Nakuru, about 2-3 hours from Nairobi. The area features expansive savanna, acacia woodland, and a large Rothschild’s giraffe population, with housing available in serene, often remote settings.
The area is a protected ecosystem, home to giraffes, buffalo, zebras, and various birds. It is a tranquil, rural-industrial landscape. Accommodation in the town primarily features scenic rural houses, cottages, and some furnished options suitable for longer stays or remote work.
Wrap Up
Each of these 12 towns offers unique advantages depending on your lifestyle preferences. If you are a foreigner planning to move to Kenya, you are in for an exciting and rewarding experience, whether you’re drawn to the coastal charms of Mombasa, Malindi, and Diani, or the tranquility of the Rift Valley, or the fast-paced allure of Nairobi.
By understanding the essential aspects of life in these towns, you will be better prepared to move to and enjoy life in these places. If you are a local or expat looking to move to any town in Kenya, Nellions Moving and Relocations Company offers swift, safe, and trusted residential relocation services.
Call us on +254700000002 or email move@nellions.co.ke today to get a free quote.
