Nairobi Neighborhoods
Your transparent, real-time guide to the Nairobi rental market.
Kasarani
Kasarani is a densely populated, high-energy neighborhood known for its affordability and vibrant street life. It is extremely popular with students from nearby universities (KCA, USIU) and young people starting their careers. The area is characterized by a vast number of apartment blocks and a bustling 24/7 economy, offering a practical and budget-conscious urban living experience with excellent transport links.
Kileleshwa
Sitting between the hustle of Westlands and the quiet of Lavington, Kileleshwa offers a balanced lifestyle. It is a strictly residential zone with many newer apartment complexes. The area is greener than Kilimani and known for its quiet, tree-lined streets, making it popular with families and professionals who want a peaceful retreat near the city.

Kilimani
A vibrant, cosmopolitan hub with buzzing cafes and co-working spaces. Perfect for young professionals and expatriates who enjoy a dynamic social scene and the convenience of being close to the city center. The area is known for its modern apartments and a high concentration of restaurants and entertainment spots.
Lavington
A leafy, upscale suburb favored by families and diplomats seeking privacy and green space without sacrificing proximity to top international schools and amenities. Lavington is characterized by its townhouses, spacious villas with gardens, and low-rise apartments. It offers a quieter, more residential vibe compared to neighboring Kilimani.
Ngong
Nestled at the foot of the Ngong Hills, this area offers scenic views and a cooler climate. It is popularly known for its affordable yet spacious standalone houses and older apartments. The town feels self-contained with a strong community vibe, attracting families who prefer a greener, quieter environment over the city bustle.
Ongata Rongai
Offering a unique blend of semi-urban living and proximity to Nairobi National Park. 'Rongai' is famous for its vibrant culture and affordable housing, ranging from bedsitters to large family homes. While traffic can be heavy, the community spirit and lower cost of living make it a favorite for young families and students.
Parklands
Rich in history and community, Parklands is located just north of the CBD. It attracts a close-knit community and is known for its excellent schools, hospitals (Aga Khan, MP Shah), and cultural centers. The housing is a mix of older, spacious apartments and new luxury towers. It's close to Karura Forest, offering great recreation access.
Roysambu
Affordable and well-connected, Roysambu is a bustling area popular with students and young professionals. Located along Thika Road, it offers excellent transport links and is close to major malls like TRM. The rental market is dominated by affordable, high-density apartment blocks, making it a practical choice for budget-conscious renters.

Ruaka
A bustling hub just outside Nairobi, Ruaka has seen explosive growth due to its proximity to the UN, Gigiri, and Westlands. It primarily attracts young professionals, expatriates, and digital nomads who value modern apartments with comprehensive amenities. The area is defined by high-density, vertical living and a vibrant, fast-paced commercial scene that caters to its dynamic population.
Ruiru
Ruiru is a rapidly growing residential hub accessible via the Thika Superhighway and Eastern Bypass. It attracts a diverse mix of industrial workers, university staff, and families seeking affordable, modern housing. The area retains a local town feel while offering easy connectivity to Nairobi.
Runda
One of Nairobi's premier diplomatic zones, Runda is an exclusive estate adjacent to the UN headquarters. It consists almost entirely of grand standalone mansions on large plots. It is exceptionally secure, quiet, and green. The area attracts ambassadors, UN staff, and high-net-worth individuals seeking maximum privacy and space.
Syokimau
Syokimau's strategic location along the Mombasa Road and its connection to the Nairobi Expressway and SGR Terminus has made it a prime residential area. It's popular with families and professionals working at JKIA, the Athi River industrial zone, or in the CBD. The housing stock is a mix of standalone houses in gated communities and newer apartment complexes, offering a more suburban, family-oriented lifestyle.
Tatu City
A futuristic planned city offering a controlled, 'live-work-play' environment. Tatu City features paved roads, reliable utilities, and high security. It attracts expatriates, executives, and families looking for a structured, world-class community away from Nairobi's chaos.
Upper Hill
As Nairobi's financial district, Upper Hill is dominated by skyscrapers and corporate HQs. However, it is emerging as a luxury residential address for executives who want to live walking distance from work. Listings here are exclusively high-end apartments with hotel-like amenities. It is very quiet at night and on weekends but busy during workdays.
Westlands
Nairobi's entertainment and business capital, Westlands is a high-energy district blending luxury living with a vibrant nightlife and corporate headquarters. It attracts expatriates, diplomats, and affluent professionals. The area features premium high-rise apartments, rooftop lounges, and world-class shopping malls like Sarit Centre and Westgate.
