Introduction
Investing in properties is a great way to make money. If you’re just starting out with investment properties in Kenya, know that there are the best cities that can be good choices for you. Read this article to learn about the best cities for investment properties in Kenya.
Let’s go!
1. Nairobi

Nairobi is a great choice for you. It’s the capital and largest city in Kenya, and it’s also the commercial and financial hub of East Africa. It has a growing population and a good return on investment for real estate investors.
Pros
- Has a large population density.
- Offers a high rental yield.
- Provides a stable political system.
Cons
- Has high crime rates.
- Lacks proper infrastructure.
- Has a high level of pollution.
- Has a warm, humid climate, and the average temperature is around 26 degrees Celsius.
- Possess a cosmopolitan atmosphere. The city is home to people from all over Africa and the world.
- Has a vibrant nightlife and cultural scene.
- Has a warm, humid climate, and the average temperature is around 26 degrees Celsius.
- Possess a cosmopolitan atmosphere. The city is home to people from all over Africa and the world.
- Has a vibrant nightlife and cultural scene.
2. Mombasa

Mombasa is a coastal city in Kenya, and it’s known for its beautiful beaches and rich culture. The city has a more relaxed atmosphere, and it’s a popular destination for both local and international tourists. Mombasa is also a major port city, and it’s an important hub for trade and commerce.
Pros
- Has a warm tropical climate.
- Provides a relatively low cost of living.
- Possess historical sites.
Cons
- Inadequate power supply.
- Poor infrastructure.
- High crime rate.
- Vulnerable to natural disasters.
- Has a population of about 900,000 people, making it the second-largest city in Kenya.
- Speaks Swahili and English as its main languages.
- Has tourism, fishing, and manufacturing as the main industries.
3. Kisumu

Kisumu is the third-largest city in Kenya, after Nairobi and Mombasa. It’s located in the western part of the country, on the shores of Lake Victoria. The city has a population of about 400,000 people. Kisumu’s economy is based on trade, agriculture, and tourism. The city is known for its vibrant culture and its proximity to Lake Victoria.
Pros
- Possess a natural beauty.
- Provides a low cost of living.
- Own vibrant cultural centres.
- Has diverse population.
Cons
- Frequent high crimes.
- Poorly developed infrastructure.
- Likely to flood during the rainy season.
- Major producer of fish. The city is home to a number of fish processing factories.
- Is a political and cultural center. Kisumu was founded in 1901 as a trading post on the shores of Lake Victoria. The city developed rapidly during the colonial period and became an important centre of commerce. After Kenya gained independence in 1963, Kisumu became a major political and cultural centre.
- Has an economy based on trade. The city’s economy is based on trade, agriculture, and tourism.
4. Nakuru

This is a great choice for you. Nakuru is the fourth-largest city in Kenya, after Nairobi, Mombasa, and Kisumu. The city is located in the Great Rift Valley, and it’s known for its picturesque setting and its abundance of wildlife. Nakuru is a popular destination for tourists who come to visit Lake Nakuru National Park, which is home to a large population of flamingos. The city is also a major centre of commerce, with many industries such as textiles, food processing, and agriculture.
Pros
- Has a rapidly growing economy.
- Possess a natural beauty.
- Provides a relatively low cost of living.
Cons
- Prone to flood during the rainy season.
- Little funds to make ends meet.
- Poor city’s infrastructure.
- Possess a famous attraction: Lake Nakuru National Park.
- Has a large population of flamingos as well as other wild life.
- Provides several hotels and resorts.
5. Eldoret

Eldoret is a city you can consider. It’s located in the Rift Valley, about 200 kilometres from Nairobi. Eldoret is a relatively small city, but it’s growing rapidly. It’s known for its agricultural sector, and it’s home to several large farms. The city is also home to Moi University, which is one of the largest universities in Kenya. Eldoret is a good option if you’re looking for a more laid-back lifestyle, and it’s also relatively affordable.
Pros
- Has a relatively low crime rate.
- Provides an affordable, laid-back lifestyle.
- Surrounded by beautiful scenery, including the Nandi Hills and the Cherangani Hills.
Cons
- Inadequate infrastructure.
- Poor air quality.
- Far off from major cities.
- Economy and Development: The city’s economy is largely driven by agriculture, with maize, wheat, and dairy farming being the major contributors. This stability fosters a consistent demand for housing and commercial spaces.
- Favourable Climate: Pleasant weather attracts residents and tourists, increasing occupancy rates.
- Distance from Major Cities: The location might not appeal to everyone.
6. Kakamega

Kakamega is a smaller city than Eldoret, but it still has a lot to offer. The city is known for its rich history and culture, and it’s home to several historic sites. The Kakamega Forest is a major attraction in the city, and it’s a great place to see wildlife and experience nature. Additionally, the city has a number of markets and restaurants that offer local cuisine.
Pros
- Has several national parks for exploring the beauty of Western Kenya.
- Is a safe city, and crime is relatively low.
- Has a low cost of living.
Cons
- Poor modern amenities and infrastructure.
- Limited job opportunities.
- Congested roads.
- Lean transportation. Transportation in Kakamega is limited, and the city does not have an airport. Most people travel by bus or minibus taxi, which can be crowded and uncomfortable.
- Limited healthcare. Healthcare in the city is also limited, and many people rely on traditional medicine.
Overview of the Best Cities for Investment Properties in Kenya

Do you need the best cities for property investment in Kenya? If yes, always know that there are several options that are good choices for you. Fortunately, some cities have a striving tourism industry and a large port, as well as a strong economy and a large population.
These cities include Nairobi, Mombasa, Kisumu, Nakuru, Eldoret, and Kakamega.
How to Choose the Best Cities for Investment Properties in Kenya
If you’re trying to decide which city is the best for investing in property, there are a few things you should consider.
- Economic activity: is the city growing, and are there new businesses and industries moving in?
- Population: is the city growing, and are there people moving in or out?
- Quality of life: is the city safe, clean, and well-maintained?
- Infrastructure: are there good roads, hospitals, and schools?
Pros and Cons of the Best Cities for Investment Properties in Kenya
Pros
- High economic activity and population growth can lead to increased demand for housing and higher property values.
- Great quality of life that can attract more people to the city, leading to increased demand for housing.
- Good infrastructure that will make it easier to get around the city and make it a more desirable place to live.
Cons
- Rapid economic growth leads to high inflation and higher property prices.
- High population growth will put pressure on the city’s infrastructure and resources.
- High cost of living may not be affordable for everyone.
What to watch out for
When investing in property in Kenya, there are a few things you must watch out for:
- Political instability and civil unrest can lead to property damage and loss of value.
- Natural disasters, such as floods and droughts, can also cause property damage and loss of value.
- Fraud and corruption can make it difficult to complete real estate transactions and may lead to legal problems.
- Lack of transparency and reliable data can make it difficult to make informed decisions about property investment.
Pro Tips

- Do your research and consult with experts before making any decisions.
- Make sure you understand the legal and regulatory framework for real estate in Kenya.
- Be aware of the risks involved in investing in property in a developing country.
- Be patient and be prepared for the ups and downs of the real estate market.
- Keep an eye on economic and political developments that could impact the property market.
Recap
The best cities for investment properties in Kenya include Nairobi, Mombasa, Kisumu, and Eldoret. Each city has its own unique pros and cons. You should consider the economic and population growth of a city, the quality of life, the infrastructure, and the political and social stability. You should also be aware of the risks involved in investing in property in Kenya and the need for patience and careful research.