If you’re planning to move to Nairobi—whether for work, business, or lifestyle—you need a clear picture of rent prices across different neighborhoods.

Nairobi is one of Africa’s fastest-growing cities, and rental costs vary widely depending on location, apartment size, security, and whether you choose a furnished or unfurnished unit.

This guide breaks down Nairobi rent prices by area, explains what affects the cost, and helps you choose a neighborhood that fits your lifestyle.

If you want a ready-to-move-in home, you can also explore fully furnished options through The Skyline Collection’s serviced apartments.

Let’s get into it.

How Much Is Rent in Nairobi? (Quick Overview)

Here’s a simple breakdown of average monthly rent prices in Nairobi:

Unfurnished Rentals (2025 Averages)

  • Bedsitter: KES 12,000–20,000

  • 1 Bedroom: KES 20,000–45,000

  • 2 Bedroom: KES 45,000–80,000

  • 3 Bedroom: KES 80,000–150,000+

Furnished/Serviced Apartments

Price depends on location, amenities, and level of furnishing:

  • Studio / 1 Bedroom: KES 120,000–200,000

  • 2 Bedroom: KES 180,000–350,000

  • 3 Bedroom: KES 250,000–500,000+

If you want convenience—cleaning, security, Wi-Fi, and utilities included—consider staying in one of The Skyline Collection’s serviced apartments.

Nairobi Rent Prices by Neighborhood

Different areas attract different kinds of renters. Here’s what you can expect in Nairobi’s most popular neighborhoods.

1. Westlands

Westlands is one of Nairobi’s busiest and most modern districts. You’ll find malls, high-end gyms, restaurants, offices, and nightlife within walking distance.

Average Rent in Westlands

  • 1 Bedroom: KES 50,000–90,000 (unfurnished)

  • 2 Bedroom: KES 80,000–150,000

  • 3 Bedroom: KES 150,000–250,000+

  • Serviced Apartments: KES 150,000–300,000+

If you want to move into a fully furnished space immediately, check out our apartments in Westlands.

Who Should Live Here?

  • Young professionals

  • Expats

  • Anyone who wants a walkable and social lifestyle

Westlands is fast, convenient, and central—so rent reflects that.

2. Kilimani

Kilimani combines lifestyle, convenience, and modern apartments. You’re close to malls like Yaya and Prestige, with easy access to Ngong Road and the CBD.

Average Rent in Kilimani

  • 1 Bedroom: KES 45,000–70,000

  • 2 Bedroom: KES 70,000–130,000

  • 3 Bedroom: KES 130,000–200,000+

  • Serviced Apartments: KES 140,000–280,000+

For fully furnished homes, see our apartments in Kilimani.

Who Should Live Here?

  • Working professionals

  • Remote workers

  • Anyone who wants comfort without the typical Westlands noise

Kilimani has become a favorite because you get modern housing without Westlands traffic and noise.

3. Kileleshwa

Kileleshwa is quieter and greener than Kilimani and Westlands. It’s known for safe streets, new high-rise apartments, and a strong residential feel.

Average Rent in Kileleshwa

  • 1 Bedroom: KES 40,000–65,000

  • 2 Bedroom: KES 70,000–120,000

  • 3 Bedroom: KES 120,000–160,000

  • Serviced Apartments: KES 130,000–260,000+

Explore our furnished apartments in Kileleshwa if you prefer a quiet environment with modern design.

Who Should Live Here?

  • Families

  • Expats who want peace

  • Anyone who values security and green spaces

Kileleshwa gives you comfort and calm without compromising on accessibility.

4. Lavington

Lavington is one of Nairobi’s top-tier residential suburbs. It’s quiet, secure, and full of spacious apartments and townhouses.

Average Rent in Lavington

  • 1 Bedroom: KES 50,000–80,000

  • 2 Bedroom: KES 90,000–150,000

  • 3 Bedroom: KES 150,000–250,000+

  • Serviced Apartments: KES 180,000–350,000+

Check out our apartments in Lavington if you want a furnished place in one of Nairobi’s most exclusive neighborhoods.

Who Should Live Here?

  • Families

  • Diplomats

  • Professionals seeking privacy

You get wide roads, big compounds, and a strong sense of security.

5. Karen

Karen is Nairobi’s premium suburban area—spacious, green, and quiet. Homes here sit on large compounds. Rent is higher because land is expensive.

Average Rent in Karen

  • 2 Bedroom: KES 120,000–200,000 (unfurnished)

  • 3 Bedroom: KES 180,000–300,000+

  • 4–5 Bedroom Homes: KES 300,000–600,000+

Who Should Live Here?

  • Families with kids

  • People who want space and privacy

  • Expats assigned to diplomatic posts

It’s far from the city center, so you’ll need a car. If you need one for short or long-term use, check out our Nairobi car hire services.

6. Parklands

Parklands is close to Westlands and popular with families because it’s quieter and more affordable.

Average Rent in Parklands

  • 2 Bedroom: KES 60,000–100,000

  • 3 Bedroom: KES 100,000–150,000

It’s a good mix of affordability and accessibility.

7. South B & South C

These two neighborhoods offer some of the best value for money near the CBD.

Average Rent

  • 1 Bedroom: KES 25,000–40,000

  • 2 Bedroom: KES 40,000–70,000

  • 3 Bedroom: KES 70,000–100,000

Most units are older but well-maintained.

8. Nairobi CBD and Upper Hill

These areas are more commercial, but you’ll still find a few apartments.

Average Rent

  • 1 Bedroom: KES 40,000–70,000 (CBD)

  • Upper Hill 1–2 Bedrooms: KES 80,000–150,000

Upper Hill is modern but prices reflect its position as a business district.

9. Lang’ata

Lang’ata is one of Nairobi’s most balanced residential areas. It’s safe, green, and close to key spots like Galleria Mall, Wilson Airport, and the Nairobi National Park.

Average Rent in Lang’ata

  • 1 Bedroom: KES 25,000–40,000

  • 2 Bedroom: KES 40,000–70,000

  • 3 Bedroom: KES 65,000–100,000

Who Should Live Here?

  • Young professionals

  • Students at Strathmore, Catholic, Daystar, or Riara University

  • Families who want affordability without moving too far out

Lang’ata gives you space and convenience at fair prices.

10. Roysambu

Roysambu is one of Nairobi’s most affordable and well-connected middle-class areas. TRM Mall, the Thika Road superhighway, and many universities are close by.

Average Rent in Roysambu

  • Bedsitter: KES 12,000–18,000

  • 1 Bedroom: KES 18,000–30,000

  • 2 Bedroom: KES 35,000–55,000

Who Should Live Here?

  • Students

  • Anyone on a budget

  • People who want access to Thika Road

If you want the lowest Nairobi rent prices while staying near good amenities, Roysambu is a good match.

11. Ruai

Ruai is an upcoming and fast-growing estate along Kangundo Road. It’s far from the city center, but rent is very affordable.

Average Rent in Ruai

  • Bedsitter: KES 7,000–12,000

  • 1 Bedroom: KES 13,000–20,000

  • 2 Bedroom: KES 20,000–35,000

  • 3 Bedroom: KES 35,000–50,000

Who Should Live Here?

  • People who want space

  • Anyone looking for the lowest rent possible

  • Families okay with commuting

Ruai offers some of the cheapest rent in Nairobi.

12. Ruaka

Ruaka sits right next to the Two Rivers area and is one of the fastest-growing suburbs. It mixes affordability with easy access to Limuru Road, the UN Headquarters, and diplomatic areas.

Average Rent in Ruaka

  • 1 Bedroom: KES 25,000–40,000

  • 2 Bedroom: KES 40,000–65,000

  • 3 Bedroom: KES 70,000–110,000

Who Should Live Here?

  • Professionals working in Gigiri

  • Students

  • Young families

Ruaka has become a hotspot for people who want modern apartments without Gigiri prices.

13. Kitisuru

Kitisuru is one of Nairobi’s most luxurious residential zones. It’s quiet, secure, and full of high-end homes and gated communities.

Average Rent in Kitisuru

  • 2 Bedroom: KES 120,000–200,000

  • 3 Bedroom: KES 180,000–300,000

  • 4–5 Bedroom Townhouses/Villas: KES 250,000–600,000+

Who Should Live Here?

  • Diplomats

  • High-income professionals

  • Anyone looking for privacy

Kitisuru offers a peaceful lifestyle with spacious homes and great security.

14. Runda

Runda is Nairobi’s diplomatic zone—clean, calm, and extremely secure. Many embassies and international organizations are based nearby.

Average Rent in Runda

  • 3 Bedroom Villa: KES 250,000–400,000

  • 4–5 Bedroom Homes: KES 350,000–750,000+

Who Should Live Here?

  • Diplomats

  • Executives

  • Large families

Runda is high-end, private, and one of the safest places to live in Nairobi.

15. Gigiri

Gigiri is one of Nairobi’s most secure and upscale neighborhoods. It’s home to the United Nations headquarters, several embassies, top international schools, and high-end shopping areas like Village Market. Because of its diplomatic status, rent is higher than in most parts of the city.

Average Rent in Gigiri

  • 1 Bedroom (rare): KES 90,000–150,000

  • 2 Bedroom: KES 150,000–250,000

  • 3 Bedroom: KES 250,000–350,000

  • 4–5 Bedroom Villas: KES 350,000–700,000+

Who Should Live Here?

  • Diplomats

  • UN staff

  • Expats looking for top security

  • Families who want international schools nearby

Gigiri gives you space, privacy, strong security, and a calm environment—all things that come at a premium.

What Affects Nairobi Rent Prices?

Rent varies depending on several factors. Here’s what you should look out for:

1. Location

Central and high-demand areas cost more. Westlands and Kilimani are more expensive than South B or Roysambu.

2. Building Quality

A modern tower with:

  • backup generators

  • lifts

  • gyms

  • swimming pools

  • strict security

…will cost more than an older block.

3. Furnished vs. Unfurnished

Furnished apartments cost more because they include:

  • Furniture

  • Electronics

  • Wi-Fi

  • Cleaning

  • Utilities

This makes serviced apartments ideal for short stays, expats, and business travelers.

You can explore the full list of furnished apartments in Nairobi provided by The Skyline Collection.

4. Security

Gated communities and buildings with strong security systems usually have higher rent.

5. Proximity to Work or Schools

The closer you are to key institutions, the higher the rent.

6. Developer Reputation

Well-known developers usually build premium apartments.

7. Demand Fluctuations

During high seasons (e.g., holidays or conferences), serviced apartment prices may go up.

Furnished vs. Unfurnished Apartments — Which Should You Choose?

Choose Furnished If:

  • You’re staying short-term

  • You don’t want to buy furniture

  • You want convenience

  • You prefer flexible monthly terms

The Skyline Collection offers fully furnished homes in:

Choose Unfurnished If:

  • You’re staying long term

  • You want lower monthly costs

  • You prefer customizing your home

What You Should Budget for Beyond Rent

Rent isn’t the only cost. Make sure you factor in:

1. Deposit

Usually one to two months’ rent.

2. Utilities

Some buildings include utilities in the rent, especially serviced apartments. Others require you to pay for:

  • Electricity

  • Water

  • Gas

  • Wi-Fi

3. Parking

Some apartments charge extra.

4. Transport

If you don’t own a car, consider hiring one for flexibility. You can book through The Skyline Collection’s car hire service.

How to Choose the Right Neighborhood in Nairobi

When comparing Nairobi rent prices, think about:

1. Commute Time

Traffic can add 30–60 minutes each way.

2. Noise Levels

Westlands is lively. Kileleshwa is quieter.

3. Amenities

Look for:

  • gyms

  • supermarkets

  • restaurants

  • schools

4. Security

Always confirm if the apartment has:

  • 24/7 guards

  • CCTV

  • controlled access

5. Internet Reliability

Most modern buildings offer fiber.

Final Thoughts

Nairobi rent prices depend on where you live and the type of unit you choose. Westlands, Kilimani, Kileleshwa, and Lavington offer modern living at higher prices.

South B, South C, and Parklands are more budget-friendly. Karen, Runda, and Kitisuru give you quiet and space but at a premium.

If you want a ready-made home that saves time and offers convenience, explore The Skyline Collection’s serviced apartments. You can also check fully furnished options in Kilimani, Westlands, Lavington, and Kileleshwa.

And if you need a car to move around the city, you can easily book one from our Nairobi car hire page.

You now have a clear understanding of how much rent costs in Nairobi—so you can pick a place that fits your life, budget, and goals.