Kilimani is where many people moving to Nairobi start. It is central, full of apartment blocks, and has everything within a short ride: malls, cafés, hospitals, gyms and offices in Upper Hill and Westlands. It is on the map, in Dagoretti North constituency.
Who it suits
- Young professionals and couples who want to be close to work and nightlife.
- Newcomers who want a furnished flat, short leases and plenty of choice.
- Less so families wanting a garden and quiet, who often look at Lavington, Kileleshwa or further out.
Rents
Rough asking rents for unfurnished flats in 2026 listings:
| What | Rough rent (KES a month) |
|---|---|
| Studio or bedsitter | 25,000 - 45,000 |
| One bedroom | 40,000 - 80,000 |
| Two bedrooms | 60,000 - 130,000 |
| Three bedrooms | 90,000 - 180,000 |
Newer towers with a pool, gym and backup power sit at the top of each range. Furnished and serviced flats cost noticeably more. Add a service charge in some buildings, and work out the full move-in cost with the move-in cost calculator.
The main streets
- Argwings Kodhek Road - the spine, with Yaya Centre, cafés and restaurants.
- Ngong Road edge - close to The Junction and Prestige Plaza, and the route to Karen.
- Lenana, Ring Road Kilimani, Kindaruma and Wood Avenue - quieter roads of apartment blocks.
- Near Kenyatta Hospital and Upper Hill - handy for hospital and office workers.
Getting around
- To Upper Hill and the CBD - 10 to 30 minutes by car depending on traffic.
- To Westlands - 15 to 40 minutes via Waiyaki Way or Ring Road.
- Ride-hailing is cheap and quick at off-peak times.
- Matatus run along Ngong Road and Argwings Kodhek.
See Getting around Nairobi and the commute cost calculator.
Safety
Kilimani is generally considered one of the safer central areas, but phone snatching and car break-ins happen. Most blocks have gates and askaris. Take a taxi rather than walking late at night, and choose a building with controlled access. See Safety in Nairobi.
Water and power
Rapid building has put pressure on water in some parts, and supply can be rationed. Ask whether the building has a borehole or storage tanks, and a backup generator, before signing. See Utilities in Nairobi.
Daily life
- Shopping: Yaya Centre, Prestige Plaza and The Junction, with supermarkets and pharmacies.
- Health: Nairobi Hospital and Kenyatta National Hospital are close.
- Eating out: one of the densest areas for cafés and restaurants.
- Nightlife: livelier than Lavington, calmer than Westlands.
Checklist before signing
- Visit at rush hour and at night.
- Ask about water, power backup and parking.
- Check noise from bars and construction nearby.
- Read Finding housing for deposits and scams.