What are the best places or estates to live in Nairobi? Choosing where to live when moving to Nairobi is one of the most important decisions you’ll make.
Your neighbourhood will determine how safe, peaceful, and convenient your lifestyle becomes. Factors like crime, schools, housing, traffic, and access to hospitals or malls all play a big role.
In this guide, we’ll highlight the best places to live in Nairobi. Whether you are a local seeking a new estate or an expat relocating for work, here are the top 10 neighbourhoods worth considering.
Understanding the Best Places to Live in Nairobi
Nairobi is a city of contrast—with high-end suburbs, secure gated communities, and rising middle-class estates all within close proximity. When deciding on the best places to live in Nairobi, key priorities include:
- Security and privacy
- Proximity to top schools
- Reliable infrastructure
- Quality healthcare nearby
- Access to shopping and recreation
- Stable traffic and road networks
Using these criteria, and insights from residents, here are the top 10 estates you can confidently move to in Nairobi.
Muthaiga Offers Exclusive Luxury and High Security
Muthaiga is one of Nairobi’s oldest and wealthiest estates. It’s known for its massive homes, tree-lined streets, and secure gated residences. Many prominent figures such as the late President Mwai Kibaki and businessman Jimmy Wanjigi, have called this place home.
Muthaiga is also home to the prestigious Muthaiga Golf Club and Gertrude’s Children’s Hospital. Security is tight, and the neighbourhood is peaceful—perfect for high-profile individuals seeking privacy.
Gigiri Is a Top Choice for Diplomats and Expats
Gigiri hosts one of the largest international communities in Africa. It is home to the United Nations offices, several embassies, and international schools like the German School and Rosslyn Academy.
It is one of the most secure estates in Nairobi, with 24-hour police patrols and its own police station. Gigiri is also near major shopping malls like Village Market and Warwick Centre, making it ideal for families, diplomats, and expats.
Lavington Combines Class with Convenience
Lavington is a lush, green, and quiet neighbourhood located northwest of the city centre. It’s popular among professionals and middle to high-income families. You’ll find spacious homes, beautiful gardens, and paved driveways.
The estate also has top schools such as Braeburn and Loreto Convent Msongari. Lavington’s central location makes it easy to access malls and business districts, yet it maintains a calm residential feel.
Kileleshwa Offers a Peaceful Environment
Kileleshwa is a relaxed and secure middle-class suburb that has grown in popularity among young professionals, families, and expatriates. It’s known for its tranquility and modern apartments.
Several quality schools such as Kenton College and Cavina School are found here. The area also enjoys reliable infrastructure, good roads, and easy access to malls and the CBD.
Ridgeways Delivers Comfort and Seclusion
Ridgeways is an upscale estate along Kiambu Road. It is home to influential individuals like former Kiambu Governor William Kabogo. The estate features high-end homes with top-level security and privacy.
The nearby Ridgeways Mall and Windsor Golf Club provide residents with shopping, entertainment, and leisure options. Ridgeways is ideal for those seeking a quiet, safe, and refined lifestyle away from city noise.
Runda Is the Heart of Gated Community Living
Runda is one of the largest and most secure gated communities in Nairobi. It offers spacious houses, lush green spaces, and top-tier infrastructure. Runda lies between Limuru and Kiambu Roads, close to major diplomatic missions.
Security is taken seriously, with both a police station and a police post serving the area. Schools such as Potterhouse and Brookhouse are within easy reach, making Runda perfect for families.
Kilimani and Hurlingham Offer Urban Living Near the CBD
Kilimani and Hurlingham are popular with young professionals and middle-income families. These estates offer modern apartments and secure gated homes just a few minutes from the city centre.
Shopping malls like Yaya Centre and Junction Mall are nearby. The road network is decent, and residents benefit from access to social amenities, schools, and business hubs.
Karen Provides Spacious Living and Nature Views
Karen is known for its large mansions, colonial charm, and spacious compounds. It is one of Nairobi’s most prestigious neighbourhoods, home to politicians like Deputy President William Ruto and Raila Odinga.
The estate is close to the Ngong Forest, Ngong Racecourse, and the Giraffe Centre. Karen also hosts top schools like Brookhouse and Hillcrest, along with key hospitals such as Karen Hospital and Nairobi Hospital.
Kitisuru Combines Luxury with a Strategic Location
Kitisuru is a high-end residential area close to key neighbourhoods like Gigiri, Runda, and Westlands. It is favoured by expatriates, executives, and wealthy families. The homes are large, secure, and modern.
It also offers easy access to top schools like the International School of Kenya and Rosslyn Academy. If you want quiet luxury with quick access to business districts, Kitisuru is a strong option.
Riverside Provides Easy Access to CBD and Diplomats
Riverside is nestled on the slopes along the Nairobi River. It features modern apartments and high-end houses, many designed for diplomats and international professionals.
The area is close to the CBD and Westlands, making commuting easier. With strong security, clean streets, and well-developed infrastructure, Riverside is ideal for those who want proximity to work without sacrificing comfort.
Wrapping Up
Nairobi offers diverse living environments that cater to all types of people—from diplomats and expats to middle-class families and high-income professionals. Whether you want a secure and quiet suburb or a modern estate near town, the best places to live in Nairobi offer a wide range of choices.
Still undecided? Other good options worth exploring include Nyari, Lower Kabete, Spring Valley, Parklands, and Kahawa Sukari. Choose wisely—because your neighbourhood will shape your Nairobi experience.
