Before relocating to a new city, expats often wonder about the best areas to live. When considering Nairobi, it’s helpful to break it down into three main factors:
- Proximity to work or your child’s school.
- Access to amenities like shops, malls, cinemas, and bakeries.
- Closeness to hobbies, sports activities, or green spaces.
Nairobi’s commute isn’t typically pedestrian-friendly, so you’ll likely be relying on Uber, Little Cab, Taxify (taxi apps), your own car, car-sharing, Matatus (community minivans that are cheap but not always safe), or Boda-Bodas (motorbikes). Nairobi’s infamous traffic should also be a key consideration in choosing your new home.
1. Westlands
- Restaurants: Mama Rocks @ Alchemist, Java House @ The Oval, Honey and Dough, Cafe Kaya, Nyama Mama Delta, Bao Box
- Shopping: Westgate, Sarit Centre
- Traffic: Medium
- Activities: Board games at Bao, parties at Alchemist, K1 Klubhouse, Brew Bistro, Blue Door
Westlands is often considered Nairobi’s downtown, bustling with bars, clubs, shops, and restaurants. Many big offices and co-working spaces are also located here, making it a lively and popular neighborhood. Apartments tend to be pricier due to its central location, but it’s worth it to avoid frequent commuting.
Kilimani
- Restaurants: Mama Rocks, Kesh Kesh, Ankole Grill, Habesha, Lava Latte, Connect Coffee Roasters
- Shopping: Yaya Centre, Adlife Plaza
- Traffic: High
- Activities: Nairobi Arboretum
Kilimani is a large residential area just 15 minutes by taxi from Westlands. Despite its lack of parks, it has a popular running route and a vibrant community of expats and locals. Evening traffic can be intense, but the area offers a safe and lively environment with various dining and shopping options.
Kileleshwa
- Shopping: Kasuku Centre, Quickmart Lavington
- Traffic: Medium
- Activities: Nairobi Arboretum
Kileleshwa is popular among expats, especially around GithungurI Road, offering stunning views and proximity to Westlands and Town. Kasuku Centre serves as a local hub with a greengrocer, bakery, butcher, and supermarket. It’s a convenient neighborhood with easy access to both work and leisure activities.
Valley Arcade
- Restaurants: Gyros 2 Go, The Chairman’s Pork
- Shopping: Valley Arcade, Quick Mart Lavington, King’s Valley Arcade
- Traffic: Medium
Valley Arcade is a quiet, leafy neighborhood at the intersection of Kilimani, Lavington, and Kileleshwa. It offers a pleasant living environment with all necessary amenities within walking distance. Rental prices are competitive, making it an attractive option for many expats.
Lavington
- Restaurants: Pallet Cafe, Tokyo, Chekafe, Arbor Place, The Social
- Shopping: Lavington Mall, Quickmart Lavington
- Traffic: Medium
- Activities: Jaffreys Sports Club, Kioko Mwitiki Art Gallery
Lavington is known for its elite schools and large detached houses with beautiful gardens. It has two main malls, Lavington Curve Mall and Lavington Mall, offering a variety of shops, cafes, and restaurants. It’s a slightly more upscale area, reflecting in its rental prices.
Junction and Ngong Rd
- Shopping: Junction Mall, Toi Market, Adams Arcade
- Traffic: Medium
- Activities: Live music at Dagoz Bar
This area is great for those working on Ngong Road or towards Karen. Junction Mall is one of Nairobi’s largest, with various dining, shopping, and entertainment options. It’s also close to sports facilities and vibrant local markets like Toi Market.
Karen and Langata
- Restaurants: Talisman, Tin Roof Cafe, Boho Eatery, Cultiva Farm, CJ’s Waterfront
- Shopping: The Hub, Waterfront, and Galleria shopping malls; Langata Link Shops
- Traffic: Low
Karen and Langata are prestigious neighborhoods known for their tranquility and accessibility. They offer small apartments and cottages amidst large estates and gated communities. The area is perfect for weekend getaways, featuring some of Nairobi’s best restaurants and tourist attractions.
Riverside Drive
- Restaurants: Amani Ya Juu, Le Grenier A Pain
- Traffic: Low
Riverside Drive is a plush, leafy neighborhood with newly built apartments and office complexes. It’s well-positioned between major areas, making it convenient for commuting. The area is also home to some excellent restaurants, banks, and shops.
These neighborhoods offer a variety of living experiences in Nairobi, catering to different needs and preferences. Whether you’re looking for vibrant city life or a quiet, leafy retreat, Nairobi has something to offer.
#RelocateToNairobi #NairobiLiving #NairobiRealEstate #ExpatsInNairobi #DiscoverNairobi #NairobiHomes #CityLiving #HomeSweetHome #NairobiNeighborhoods
