Are you considering a move to Kenya, the beautiful land at the heart of East Africa renowned for its scenic landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and bustling cities and towns? Whether you’re relocating for work, adventure, investment, or simply want to settle for your retirement, life in the country can be a uniquely enriching experience.
In this guide, we explore the key aspects of moving to and living in Kenya. From navigating immigration, finding secure accommodation, top healthcare facilities and education centers, to immersing yourself into local and expat communities, we’ve got you covered.
1. Kenya’s Immigration Procedures
Like many countries, Kenya issues different types of resident permits to different classes of foreigners. Diplomats, expatriates, retirees, and those moving to Kenya for investment all have different requirements.
It’s crucial to understand all the requirements based on your situation before relocating, especially if your entire family is coming with you. Government immigration services are mostly available online at immigration.go.ke. You may also engage an immigration consultant to advise and support you with your move to avoid last-minute headaches.
2. Kenya’s Economy
Kenya has the largest and most diversified economy in Eastern and Central Africa, with Nairobi serving as the regional commercial hub. Agriculture is the major economic activity, followed by tourism, manufacturing, telecommunications, banking, and transport. The country continues to position itself as a formidable force in tech investments, with a lot of development particularly in the fintech sector.
Kenya’s economy continues to grow at a rate of 4.9% per year in the last decade which makes it ripe for business and investment. The literacy level is at 82%, with most people having at least a high school certificate and most young people being university graduates. This creates a vibrant and intelligent workforce.
3. Major Cities in Kenya
While Kenya’s capital, Nairobi, is the more popular city and the diplomatic hub hosting one of 4 major United Nations Global Headquarters at Gigiri, the Delegation of the European Union to Kenya, and dozens of Embassies and High Commissions, the country has a lot more to offer.
Expatriates and diplomats can choose to live in the coastal towns of Mombasa, Malindi, Kilifi or Diani, the inland port city of Kisumu, or the wildlife-rich Nakuru, Nanyuki, Isiolo, Maasai Mara, and Naivasha. There are many Kenyan towns for diplomats and expatriates to reside in, depending on their lifestyle preferences, proximity to work, and security requirements.
4. Transport and Infrastructure
Kenya has 4 major functional international airports and at least a dozen local airports and airstrips scattered around the country. The most active ones are in Nairobi and Mombasa. Owing to Nairobi’s central location, it’s more convenient to travel to the other parts of the country.
Kenya boasts an extensive road network that extends to all parts of the country. However, remember to be careful while driving on Kenyan roads as it can sometimes be chaotic due to road conditions and congestion. You may hire a driver for $300 a month or hail taxis and Uber, but if you’re seeking a dose of adrenaline, you can ride public transport (matatus) which is easy to spot with colorful graffiti and booming music.
The Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) network connects different towns between Mombasa, Kisumu, and Malaba. With further extensions planned, the SGR is poised to become a central artery in Kenya’s transport infrastructure, linking major urban centers and opening new opportunities for trade and travel within the country and with landlocked neighbors such as South Sudan and Ethiopia.
The country’s internet penetration rate is at 48%, driven by widespread broadband access and fast-growing 5G networks.
5. Housing in Kenya
The housing landscape in Kenya offers a diverse range of options, catering to various preferences and budgets. In major cities like Nairobi, Mombasa, and Kisumu, housing choices range from luxurious gated communities and high-rise apartments to more modest townhouses and bungalows.
Major housing options include:
- Urban Housing – In Nairobi, upscale neighborhoods like Karen, Lavington, Westlands, Kitisuru, Lower Kabete, Peponi, Thigiri, Gigiri, Rosslyn, Muthaiga, Ridgeways, Kileleshwa, Kilimani, Loresho, Kyuna, Nyari, Tigoni, and Runda are popular among expatriates and affluent locals looking for spacious homes with modern amenities. Mombasa, known for its coastal charm, harbors Nyali, Kilifi, Malindi, Watamu, and Diani neighborhoods where residents can enjoy beachfront properties. Kisumu is seeing a rise in modern apartments and townhouses, particularly in areas like Milimani.
- Rural and Suburban Living – Beyond the cities, Kenya’s countryside offers serene environments for those seeking a quieter lifestyle. Towns like Naivasha, Nanyuki, The Mara and Eldoret are known for their beautiful landscapes and more laid-back pace of life. Here, one can find standalone houses with ample outdoor space, often at more affordable prices than in the cities.
- Rental and Purchase Options: The real estate market in Kenya caters to both renters and buyers. While renting is common among expatriates and those seeking flexibility, the market also offers opportunities for buying or building a home depending on your budget and housing needs. In recent years, there has been a growth in real estate developments, with new housing projects and gated communities springing up, particularly in suburban areas.
Modern housing in Kenya often comes with amenities such as swimming pools, gyms, and community centers. Security is a key consideration, with many opting for homes in gated communities or with private security services.
6. Education in Kenya
Kenya is home to numerous international schools, particularly in Nairobi and Mombasa, offering British, American, and International Baccalaureate (IB) curriculums. Renowned schools include the International School of Kenya, Brookhouse School, and Braeburn Schools.
These institutions offer high educational standards, diverse student bodies, and extracurricular programs. They provide an excellent environment for expat children to continue their education in a familiar curriculum while experiencing cultural diversity.
In 2017, Kenya introduced a significant shift in its education system with the Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC), moving away from the traditional 8-4-4 system. This new approach aims to produce “engaged, empowered, and ethical citizens” through a 2-6-3-3-3 System of Education.
The structure is as follows:
- Early Years Education: 2 years in pre-primary.
- Primary Education: 6 years (Grade 1–6).
- Junior Secondary: 3 years (Grade 7, 8, 9).
- Senior Secondary: 3 years (Grade 10, 11, 12).
- University Education: 3 years.
Education in international schools is relatively expensive, comparable to the cost of private schools in the US.
7. Healthcare in Kenya
Kenya boasts a range of healthcare facilities, including public hospitals, private clinics, and specialized medical centers. Healthcare standards are high in major cities like Nairobi and Mombasa; facilities are equipped with CT scanners, radiotherapy machines, and X-ray machines, and are staffed with skilled professionals.
Some notable hospitals in Kenya include the Aga Khan University Hospital, the Nairobi Hospital in Nairobi, and Mombasa Hospital in Mombasa. These facilities offer a range of services from general care to specialized treatments.
Expats moving to Kenya should consider obtaining health insurance that covers both local and international medical care. Many opt for international health insurance plans that provide comprehensive coverage, including medical evacuation.
Local insurance options are also available, offering various plans that cater to different needs and budgets. It’s advisable to research and choose a plan that offers a good balance of coverage, cost, and accessibility to preferred healthcare facilities.
8. Social Life in Kenya
Kenya’s expat communities are found mostly in major cities and popular coastal areas. These communities are welcoming and provide a great support network for newcomers. Organizations and platforms like InterNations and the Kenya Expatriates Group offer regular meetups, events, and networking opportunities.
A good way to link up with fellow expats is to visit the spots where they frequent, which you can ask about in the area you live in or engage the organizations or online platforms.
Kenya offers a wealth of social clubs and activities catering to diverse interests. The Nairobi Club, Muthaiga Country Club, Parklands Sportsclub, The Royal Golf Course and Karen Country Club are popular among expats for sports, dining, and social events. For those interested in arts and culture, the Nairobi National Museum and various art galleries offer a glimpse into Kenya’s rich heritage.
9. The Cost of Living in Kenya
Being a tropical country, the weather in Kenya is suitable to produce agricultural products like cereals and vegetables, thus making them quite affordable. If you have the time, skill, and inclination, you can grow most of your food like some households do.
Housing costs in Kenya vary depending on the location/ neighborhood and type of property. However, the costs are still significantly lower for equivalent lifestyle and accommodation in global cities like New York City. Weather in the country is manageable; people rarely need to heat their homes or use air conditioning, which keeps domestic electricity costs low.
Currently, Nairobi has an oversupply of middle-class residential housing and office spaces at decent rates. The cost of hiring domestic workers (nanny/driver/gardener) is about US$ 250 per month. Nearly all these workers are educated and speak English.
Internet is moderately priced in Kenya, from $30 monthly for fixed cable home internet at 10 MB/s to $65 monthly for a 50 MB/s subscription.
10. Convenient Transactions with M-Pesa
M-Pesa is a mobile money transaction service over 40 million Kenyans use to send and receive money and pay bills. The payment method is a lot more common than card transactions and is accepted by nearly all businesses in the country. Many foreigners leaving the country often admit that they will miss the ease and convenience of transacting via M-Pesa.
11. The Wildebeest Migration
The wildebeest migration is an annual spectacle that occurs every July: hundreds of thousands of wildebeests cross the dangerous crocodile-infested waters of the Mara River in the Maasai Mara Game Reserve and the Serengeti plains. People travel from all over the world to witness this Wonder of the New World. If you’re planning to move to Kenya for whatever reason, make a point to experience this natural occurrence at least once.
12. Adventure and Leisure in Kenya
Kenya’s stunning natural landscapes, recreational centers, and tourist attractions will make any visit a truly enriching experience. There are tons of weekend activities to indulge in, from safaris at the Maasai Mara or the Nairobi National Park, beach sports in the coastal towns of Mombasa, Diani, and Malindi, to hikes and nature trails in the Mt. Kenya National Reserve and other wildlife sanctuaries.
Most of these tourist sites in the major towns, including Nakuru, Naivasha, and the Coast are accessible via a quick 40-minute flight from Nairobi.
For a more relaxed hangout, sports enthusiasts can play padel ball or golf with other expatriates, then later enjoy some potent Kenyan coffee and tea in major cafés and restaurants.
Move to Kenya Seamlessly with Nellions
Starting your Kenyan adventure is an exciting prospect, and with Nellions Moving and Relocations Company, we’re committed to make your transition as smooth as possible. With over 12 years’ experience in residential and international relocations and boots on the ground in Kenya and Uganda, we offer personalized, professional services to cater to your needs, whether you’re moving with your family, pets, or household goods.
Our team of experts is ready to assist you from the moment you decide to relocate. We handle everything from packing and labelling, shipping, customs clearance, door-to-door delivery, to post-move services such as furniture installation, secure storage, and guidance in finding the best accommodation.
Let us be your partner in your new exciting journey to Kenya!
Contact us via +254700000002 or move@nellions.co.ke for a free quote.
