Ongata Rongai - usually just “Rongai” - is a fast-growing town just south of Nairobi, across the county border in Kajiado. It offers much lower rents than the city and more space, which makes it popular with young families, students and first-time buyers.
The area
Rongai lies along the Magadi Road, reached from the city through Lang’ata and past Bomas of Kenya. It borders Nairobi National Park, and nearby areas such as Kiserian and Tuala have grown with it.
Rents
Rough asking rents in 2026 listings:
| What | Rough rent (KES a month) |
|---|---|
| Bedsitter | 7,000 - 12,000 |
| One bedroom | 10,000 - 20,000 |
| Two bedrooms | 18,000 - 35,000 |
| Maisonette or bungalow | 30,000 - 60,000 |
Who it suits
- People on a budget who want more space than the city offers.
- Families looking for houses with a small compound.
- Students and staff at the Catholic University of Eastern Africa and Multimedia University nearby.
- Less so anyone commuting daily to Westlands or Gigiri.
Getting around
- Magadi Road and Lang’ata Road are the main routes into Nairobi, and they jam badly at peak hours, especially around Bomas and Galleria.
- Matatus run constantly to the CBD - Rongai’s matatus are famous for their artwork and music.
- To the CBD - 45 minutes to well over an hour at rush hour.
- The Southern Bypass links towards Karen, Westlands and Mombasa Road.
Use the commute cost calculator before choosing.
Things to check
- Water - supply is limited in many parts; ask about boreholes and tanks.
- Roads inside estates, some of which are unpaved.
- Security - choose gated compounds, and ask neighbours.
Daily life
- Shopping: Maasai Mall and supermarkets in town, with Galleria and the Karen malls further in.
- Outdoors: close to Nairobi National Park and the Ngong Hills.