Nairobi, Kenya
Cost of living · 2023 · Africa · Rent +6.8% vs 2022
Rent trend in Nairobi (2022–2026)
Cost breakdown in Nairobi (2023)
Estimated monthly budget in Nairobi
Based on 2023 data. Includes rent, groceries, transport, utilities and occasional dining out.
Cost comparison — cities in Kenya (2023)
| City | 1-Bed Rent | Groceries | Transport | Utilities | vs Nairobi |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nairobi | KES 61,100 | KES 20,680 | KES 3,948 | KES 7,990 | — |
| Mombasa | KES 47,000 | KES 16,920 | KES 3,290 | KES 6,580 | -23.1% |
Frequently asked questions
What is the cost of living in Nairobi in 2023?
In 2023, a single person living in Nairobi needs approximately KES 100,110/month, covering rent, groceries, transport and utilities. A family of 3–4 typically spends around KES 197,071/month. Nairobi is considered a relatively expensive city by global standards.
How much is rent in Nairobi in 2023?
A 1-bedroom apartment in Nairobi costs approximately KES 61,100/month in 2023. A 3-bedroom apartment runs around KES 117,500/month. Rent has changed +6.8% vs 2022.
How much do groceries cost in Nairobi?
Monthly grocery costs for one person in Nairobi are approximately KES 20,680 in 2023. This covers basic supermarket shopping including food and household essentials.
What does public transport cost in Nairobi?
A monthly public transport pass in Nairobi costs KES 3,948 in 2023, covering unlimited bus, metro and tram travel within the city.
How much are utilities in Nairobi?
Monthly utility costs in Nairobi average KES 7,990 in 2023, covering electricity, heating/cooling, water and internet for a standard apartment.
Is Nairobi expensive to live in?
Nairobi is located in Kenya (Africa). With a 1-bed rent of KES 61,100/month and total single-person expenses around KES 100,110/month, it is relatively expensive by global standards.
How much does eating out cost in Nairobi?
A typical restaurant meal for one person in Nairobi costs approximately KES 799 in 2023. Budget around KES 6,392/month if dining out a few times a week.
How have living costs in Nairobi changed over time?
LifeIndexed tracks cost of living data for Nairobi from 2022 to 2026. 1-bed rent has increased by 26.8% over this period (from KES 57,200 in 2022 to KES 72,548 in 2026). Use the year tabs above to compare costs across years.
What is the monthly budget needed to live comfortably in Nairobi?
To live comfortably in Nairobi in 2023, a single person needs approximately KES 100,110/month. This covers rent (KES 61,100), groceries (KES 20,680), transport (KES 3,948), utilities (KES 7,990) and dining out occasionally. A family of 3–4 should budget around KES 197,071/month.