What You Must Know About the Rental Market in Nairobi Before You Buy

Nairobi’s rental market is one of the most dynamic in East Africa, and nowhere is this more evident than in Westlands, Lavington, Kileleshwa, and Kilimani. These four neighborhoods form the core of Nairobi’s premium real estate zone attracting professionals, expatriates, embassy staff, NGOs and corporate tenants.

If you’re planning to buy an investment property, understanding the rental trends in these specific areas will help you make a profitable decision. Here is what you must know about the rental market in Nairobi.

1. Westlands: The Heart of Nairobi’s Premium Rental Market

Westlands Nairobi remains one of the highest-demand rental areas due to its urban lifestyle, proximity to major office hubs, and vibrant entertainment scene.

Why Westlands Is a Hotspot for Investors

• Strong demand from expatriates and young professionals
• High occupancy rates
• Premium rental prices for modern apartments
• Great Airbnb potential due to nightlife, malls, and corporate offices

Best Property Types

• 1–2 bedroom modern apartments
• Furnished short-term rentals
• Luxury serviced apartments

Typical Rental Yields

• 6%–9%, depending on building quality and furnishing

2. Kilimani: High Rental Demand and Strong Short-Term Returns

Kilimani is one of Nairobi’s most in-demand residential and mixed-use neighborhoods. It attracts corporate tenants, young professionals, NGOs, and digital nomads.

Why Kilimani Performs Well

• Close to Yaya Centre, Adlife Plaza, and schools
• Popular with the expatriate community
• High demand for furnished apartments
• Strong year-round rental occupancy

Best Property Types

• 1-bedroom units for long-term rentals
• Furnished 1–2 bedroom apartments for Airbnb
• Modern high-rise apartments with amenities

Rental Yields

• 7%–10%, especially for furnished or serviced units

3. Kileleshwa: The Quiet, High-End Residential Investment Zone

Kileleshwa was once a purely residential suburb with stand-alone homes, but today it blends luxury high-rise apartments, townhouses, and modern gated communities.

Why Investors Love Kileleshwa

• Quiet, leafy, and secure
• Less crowded compared to Kilimani
• Attractive to families and professionals
• New developments with gyms, lounges, pools & rooftop decks

Best Property Types

• Spacious 2–3 bedroom apartments
• Executive furnished rentals
• Townhouses for long-term tenants

Rental Yields

• 6%–8%, with steady long-term tenants

4. Lavington: High-End Tenant Profile and Stable Long-Term Rentals

Lavington is one of Nairobi’s most prestigious residential areas—known for upscale living, embassies, international schools, and gated family estates.

Why Lavington Is Ideal for Long-Term Rentals

• High-quality tenant profiles (diplomats, corporate executives)
• Lower tenant turnover
• Strong demand for spacious homes
• Family-oriented neighborhood with top schools

Best Property Types

• Townhouses and maisonettes
• Luxury apartments
• Modern gated communities

Rental Yields

• 5%–7%, lower than Kilimani but very stable

5. Furnished vs. Unfurnished: What Tenants Prefer in These Areas

Westlands & Kilimani

• Higher demand for furnished apartments
• Popular with expats, consultants, and short-term renters
• Ideal for Airbnb and serviced apartments

Kileleshwa & Lavington

• Higher demand for unfurnished long-term rentals
• Family-focused tenants
• Lower turnover, more stable income

6. Oversupply Exists—but Not Everywhere

Some neighborhoods have pockets of oversupply due to rapid construction, mostly Kilimani and Kileleshwa high-rise zones.
This may affect:

• Asking rent
• Occupancy rates
• Annual capital appreciation

However, premium buildings with amenities still perform strongly.

7. Expected Rental Returns in These Four Areas

Final Thoughts: Invest Smart in Nairobi’s Top Rental Neighborhoods

The rental market in Westlands, Lavington, Kileleshwa, and Kilimani continues to outperform most parts of Nairobi. Each area offers unique strengths:

• Westlands – Best for expatriates and premium rentals
• Kilimani – High yields & Airbnb potential
• Kileleshwa – Quiet, modern, and ideal for families
• Lavington – Stable long-term rentals with quality tenants

By choosing the right neighborhood and property type, you can maximize rental income, reduce vacancy risk, and secure a strong long-term investment

If you’re looking for high-performing rental properties in Westlands, Lavington, Kileleshwa, or Kilimani, reach out today for listings, market data, or personalized investment guidance.