Why Young Professionals Prefer Apartments Over Houses in Kenya
Kenya’s urban landscape is changing rapidly and so are the preferences of young professionals. Millennials and Gen Zs in cities like Nairobi, Mombasa, and Kisumu are redefining what modern living means. While previous generations aspired to own spacious standalone houses, today’s young professionals are increasingly choosing apartments for convenience, affordability and lifestyle flexibility.
1. Convenience and Proximity to Work
Most young professionals work in or near major business hubs such as Westlands, Upper Hill, Lavington, Kilimani and Nairobi CBD. Apartments in these areas offer:
- Shorter commutes, saving hours lost in traffic.
- Access to essential services like shopping malls, gyms and hospitals.
- Better work–life balance, with everything within reach.
For those in remote or hybrid jobs, apartments with high-speed internet and co-working spaces are especially appealing.
2. Affordability and Flexible Financing
With rising land and construction costs, buying a standalone house in Nairobi or Kiambu County has become out of reach for many young earners. Apartments, however, provide:
- Lower entry prices ideal for first-time buyers.
- Easier access to mortgages or developer payment plans.
- Shared costs for maintenance, security and amenities.
In 2025, Kenya’s real estate sector is seeing strong growth in affordable apartment projects, especially around Thika Rd, Syokimau, Lower Kabete, Thindigua and Ngong all designed with young professionals in mind.
3. Lifestyle and Amenities
Modern apartments come with lifestyle perks that standalone houses rarely offer:
- Rooftop lounges or terraces.
- Swimming pools and gyms.
- 24/7 security and CCTV.
- Reliable water and power backup.
Developers now design apartments with community living in mind, making them ideal for social, active young adults who value safety and networking.
4. Investment Opportunities
Young professionals are not just looking for a place to live they’re also investing early. Apartments in upcoming neighborhoods often offer strong rental yields and capital appreciation.
- Short-term rental platforms like Airbnb make apartment ownership more profitable.
- Locations near universities and business parks ensure steady rental demand.
By 2026, experts predict increased apartment investment among Kenya’s under-35 demographic, particularly in satellite towns connected by major roads and railway links.
5. Minimal Maintenance and Smart Living
Standalone houses require constant upkeep gardening, plumbing, fencing, etc. Apartments, on the other hand, are low-maintenance and efficiently managed through property management companies.
Many new developments now feature smart home technology, allowing young owners to control lighting, temperature, and security remotely aligning with Kenya’s growing digital lifestyle.
6. Flexibility and Urban Mobility
Young professionals tend to be more mobile — switching jobs, moving cities, or even relocating abroad. Renting or owning an apartment provides flexibility without long-term commitment to large property upkeep.
For many, apartments offer the perfect balance between urban living, affordability, and modern comfort.
The Trend in Numbers (2025–2026 Outlook)
- Over 60% of new urban homebuyers under 35 in Nairobi prefer apartments.
- Mortgage uptake among young professionals continues to grow, driven by flexible financing and smaller unit sizes.
- Developers are shifting focus toward mixed-use and affordable apartment projects tailored to this demographic.
🔗 Related Reads
- Apartment vs House: Which Works Better in Nairobi?
- Top Amenities That Attract Renters in Nairobi Homes
- How to Finance an Apartment Purchase in Kenya
- Appeal of Mixed-Use Developments in Nairobi
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