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Kilimani Estate, Nairobi, is one of the most luxurious estate in Kenya. It is a ;dream come true for one to stay in such a suburb. Here is a detailed sample monthly budget for someone living alone in Kilimani.
This assumes a single young professional renting a one-bedroom apartment and living a moderate lifestyle — not extreme luxury, not extreme budgeting.
Housing Costs
One-Bedroom Apartment Rent
Average: KSh 75,000 – 90,000
For this example, we’ll use:
KSh 85,000
Service Charge (if separate)
KSh 3,000 – 10,000
Example: KSh 5,000
Parking (if you own a car)
KSh 3,000 – 5,000
Example: KSh 4,000
Total Housing Estimate:
KSh 94,000—
Utilities
Electricity
KSh 2,000 – 5,000 depending on usage
Example: KSh 3,500
Water
Sometimes included
If separate: KSh 1,000 – 3,000
Example: KSh 1,500
Internet (Fiber connection)
KSh 2,800 – 5,000
Example: KSh 3,500
Total Utilities Estimate:
KSh 8,500—
Food & Groceries
Groceries (cooking at home most days)
KSh 12,000 – 20,000
Example: KSh 18,000
Eating Out / Ordering In
Casual dining & weekend outings
KSh 8,000 – 15,000
Example: KSh 12,000
Total Food Estimate:
KSh 30,000Shopping is usually done at places like Yaya Centre or nearby supermarkets.
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Transport
If You Use Ride-Hailing (No Car)
KSh 8,000 – 15,000 depending on frequency
Example: KSh 12,000
If You Own a Car
Fuel: KSh 10,000 – 18,000
Parking at work (if not included)
Occasional maintenance
Example total (car owner): KSh 18,000
For this scenario, we’ll assume no car.
KSh 12,000—
Lifestyle & Personal Expenses
Gym Membership
KSh 3,000 – 8,000
Example: KSh 5,000
Entertainment / Nightlife
KSh 5,000 – 15,000
Example: KSh 10,000
Personal Care (salon, barber, toiletries, laundry)
KSh 5,000 – 10,000
Example: KSh 7,000
Total Lifestyle Estimate:
KSh 22,000—
Estimated Monthly Total
Housing: KSh 94,000
Utilities: KSh 8,500
Food: KSh 30,000
Transport: KSh 12,000
Lifestyle: KSh 22,000
Grand Total:KSh 166,500 per month
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What This MeansTo live comfortably alone in Kilimani:
You’d realistically need KSh 160,000 – 180,000 per month for a balanced lifestyle.
You could reduce costs by:
Sharing an apartment
Cooking more at home
Using public transport
Choosing a slightly older building
