If you're planning to move to Kenya in 2026, here's what things cost
Monthly Cost Breakdown
| Category | Monthly Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Rent (1BR, City Centre) | €450 | Largest expense |
| Rent (3BR, City Centre) | €900 | For families |
| Groceries | €120 | One person, home cooking |
| Public Transport | €35 | Monthly pass |
| Utilities (85m2) | €85 | Electricity, water, heating |
| Dining Out (per meal) | €4 | Inexpensive restaurant |
| Total (Single Person) | €722 | Comfortable lifestyle |
Income vs Expenses
| Income Metric | Amount |
|---|---|
| Average Salary (Gross) | €371/month |
| Minimum Wage | €235/month |
| Salary After Rent (1BR) | €-79/month |
With an average salary of €371 and rent of €450, approximately 121% of income goes to housing.
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Cost Indices (vs New York City = 100)
| Index | Score | Interpretation |
|---|---|---|
| Cost of Living | 28.9 | Significantly cheaper NYC |
| Rent | 7.8 | Much cheaper NYC |
| Groceries | 30.4 | Cheaper NYC |
| Restaurant Prices | 25.9 | Cheaper NYC |
| Local Purchasing Power | 35.9 | Lower than NYC |
Money-Saving Tips
- Shop at local markets: Fresh produce is typically 20-40% cheaper than supermarkets
- Cook at home: Eating in saves 60-70% compared to dining out
- Use public transport: Monthly passes are much cheaper than car ownership
- Live outside the centre: Suburbs offer 20-40% lower rent with reasonable commutes
- Compare utilities: Switch providers for electricity and internet to get better deals
- Student discounts: Available for under-26s on transport, museums, and cultural events
Salary by Sector
| Sector | Entry Level | Median | Senior |
|---|---|---|---|
| It | €5,000 | €8,000 | €15,000 |
| Retail | €4,000 | €6,000 | €8,000 |
| Finance | €10,500 | €15,000 | €20,500 |
| Education | €6,000 | €9,000 | €12,500 |
| Healthcare | €3,000 | €5,000 | €10,000 |
| Engineering | €10,500 | €15,000 | €21,500 |
| Hospitality | €4,500 | €6,500 | €9,000 |
| Construction | €6,500 | €9,000 | €13,000 |
Figures are annual gross salaries in EUR.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much are utilities in Kenya?
Monthly utilities (electricity, heating, water, garbage) for an 85m2 apartment cost approximately €85. Internet typically adds another €20-50/month. In colder climates, heating can significantly increase winter bills.
What is the minimum wage in Kenya?
The minimum wage in Kenya is approximately €235/month. This compares to an average salary of €371. Note that minimum wage may not apply to all sectors or expat workers.
Are there hidden costs of living in Kenya?
Beyond the basics, budget for: health insurance (if not employer-provided), visa fees and renewals, tax adviser fees, initial deposits (rent + utilities), furnishing costs if renting unfurnished, and language courses. These can add €500-2,000 to your first months.
How much does dining out cost in Kenya?
A meal at an inexpensive restaurant costs approximately €4. The restaurant price index is 25.9/100 compared to New York City. Budget €120 per month if you eat out regularly.
How much should I save before moving to Kenya?
Based on a monthly budget of €722, we recommend saving at least 3-6 months of expenses (€2,166 to €4,332) plus visa/relocation costs. Add a buffer for unexpected expenses during your first months.
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