Nairobi
Information
A composite score evaluating the city's appeal to digital nomads, on a scale of 0-100. Calculated using a weighted formula considering factors like cost, internet quality, nomad community strength, climate suitability, and visa flexibility, derived from all relevant data points.
Information
A composite score evaluating the city's appeal to digital nomads, on a scale of 0-100. Calculated using a weighted formula considering factors like cost, internet quality, nomad community strength, climate suitability, and visa flexibility, derived from all relevant data points.
Information
Estimated number of digital nomads in the city. Based on nomad platforms and community estimates, reflecting its popularity among remote workers.
Information
Estimated number of digital nomads in the city. Based on nomad platforms and community estimates, reflecting its popularity among remote workers.
Information
The total monthly cost of living, combining housing, utilities, food, transport, workspace, and leisure expenses. Sourced from cost-of-living databases and adjusted for exchange rates, rounded to the nearest dollar.
Information
The total monthly cost of living, combining housing, utilities, food, transport, workspace, and leisure expenses. Sourced from cost-of-living databases and adjusted for exchange rates, rounded to the nearest dollar.
Information
Median download speed in Mbps in public, work-friendly spaces like libraries and cafes. Measured using recent crowdsourced data from platforms like Speedtest, excluding private residences.
Information
Median download speed in Mbps in public, work-friendly spaces like libraries and cafes. Measured using recent crowdsourced data from platforms like Speedtest, excluding private residences.
About Nairobi
Nairobi, Kenya’s bustling capital, is a vibrant hub that blends urban energy with natural beauty, making it an appealing spot for digital nomads and expats. Known for its mild climate, with temperatures between 20-27°C year-round, it offers a comfortable setting for work and leisure. The city is a gateway to Kenya’s stunning landscapes, from safari parks to coastal beaches, perfect for weekend adventures. English is widely spoken, easing communication for newcomers.
Digital nomads will find a growing community here, with around 30 coworking spaces and plenty of cafes for remote work. The cost of living is reasonable compared to Western cities, though higher than some African hubs—expect to spend about $1,700 monthly, including rent for a central one-bedroom apartment. However, internet reliability can be spotty, with public WiFi speeds averaging 10 Mbps, which may frustrate those needing consistent connectivity.
Culturally, Nairobi is a melting pot, offering lively nightlife, diverse dining from local to international cuisines, and attractions like Nairobi National Park, a unique urban wildlife reserve. The city’s infrastructure has challenges, like traffic and limited walkability, so most rely on affordable ride-sharing like Uber. Safety requires caution, especially at night, but locals are generally welcoming.
For expats, Nairobi’s entrepreneurial spirit and startup scene add to its draw, supported by a new digital nomad visa. With two rainy seasons and a car-dependent layout, planning is key, but the city’s dynamic vibe and access to nature make it a compelling base for remote workers seeking adventure and affordability.
Demographics
Location
Visa & Travel Info
Cost of Living
The total monthly cost of living in Nairobi, Kenya is $1,728, which is 2.7% lower than the global average of $1,776. This combines housing, utilities, food, transport, workspace, and leisure expenses. Data is sourced from cost-of-living databases and adjusted for exchange rates, rounded to the nearest dollar.
Internet & Community
Nairobi’s internet infrastructure is fairly developed, with widespread 4G coverage and emerging 5G in urban areas. Major providers like Safaricom, Airtel, and Telkom Kenya serve both mobile and fixed broadband needs. Public WiFi in cafes and coworking spaces averages around 10 Mbps, but reliability can dip during peak times or in crowded areas. For stable connections, nomads may prefer private plans, though speeds in public spaces can still support basic tasks.
Nairobi hosts a lively digital nomad scene, with roughly 400 remote workers enjoying its blend of affordability and adventure. About 30 coworking spaces, like Nairobi Garage, offer modern facilities and networking events. Regular meetups and social gatherings create a tight-knit community, while the city’s diverse expat population adds to the vibrant social life, making it easy to connect.
Weather & Climate
Subscribe to Our Newsletter
Stay up to date with the latest city insights delivered directly to your inbox