South of the city centre, South B, South C, Nairobi West and Madaraka are long-established middle-class estates. They offer good value, a central location, and easy access to Mombasa Road and the airport. South B is in Makadara and South C in Lang’ata on the map.
The areas
- South B - busy, with estates, apartment blocks, shops and a lively local scene, close to the Industrial Area.
- South C - quieter and more residential, with maisonettes and newer apartments.
- Nairobi West and Madaraka - near Strathmore University and Nyayo Stadium, popular with students and young professionals.
Rents
Rough asking rents in 2026 listings:
| What | Rough rent (KES a month) |
|---|---|
| Bedsitter or studio | 15,000 - 25,000 |
| One bedroom | 20,000 - 40,000 |
| Two bedrooms | 35,000 - 65,000 |
| Maisonette or townhouse | 60,000 - 120,000 |
Who they suit
- Workers in the CBD, Upper Hill or the Industrial Area.
- Frequent flyers - JKIA is close along Mombasa Road or the Expressway.
- Families and first-time renters looking for value.
Getting around
- To the CBD - 15 to 40 minutes; matatus run often.
- To JKIA - often 20 to 30 minutes via the Expressway.
- Mombasa Road can be slow at peak times, though the Expressway above it helps.
Safety
Busy estates with the usual city risks. Choose gated buildings with guards, and take care with phones on the main roads. See Safety in Nairobi.
Daily life
- Shopping: Capital Centre and other malls along Mombasa Road, plus supermarkets and markets in the estates.
- Health: Mater Hospital in South B, and Nairobi West Hospital.
- Eating out: plenty of local restaurants and nyama choma spots.