Kilifi, Kenya

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Est. Monthly Cost (1 Person)
$850
Retiree Score
47.0
Safety Index
65.4
Healthcare
2 facilities

With a population of over 1.4 million, Kilifi County is a sprawling coastal region that's more sleepy suburb than tourist hotspot. While the area boasts historical ruins and natural beauty, the bureaucratic headaches and lack of infrastructure will be a persistent challenge for those seeking an easy expat life. The economy relies heavily on tourism and fishing, but opportunities for employment outside those sectors are limited. Overall, Kilifi is best suited for those drawn to its slower pace and willing to navigate the region's logistical hurdles.

Can I afford Kilifi?

$

Kilifi

You could save

2,150/mo

Savings Rate72%

Monthly Costs

Rent $350
Living (Country Average Adjusted)$500

Attractiveness Scores

FIRE Score
(i)
72/100
Retiree Score
(i)
47/100
Lifestyle Score
(i)
42/100
💻Nomad Score
(i)
50/100
Meets Kenya Digital Nomad Visa Income Rule.
65
Safety
2
Healthcare
40
Walkability
5
Nomad

Grocery Basket

Milk (1L) $1
Bread (loaf) *$1
Eggs (12) $2
Rice (1kg) *$1
Chicken (1kg) *$6

* Estimated based on regional averages.

Eating Out

Meal (Inexpensive) *$2
Meal (Mid-range) $15
Cappuccino $2
Water (0.33L) *$1

* Estimated based on regional averages.

Utilities & Lifestyle

Utilities (mo) $15
Mobile Plan (mo) $10
Gym (mo) *$28
Cinema Ticket $8

* Estimated based on regional averages.

Housing

1BR Center (mo) $350
1BR Outside (mo) *$141
3BR Center (mo) $750
3BR Outside (mo) *$386

* Estimated based on regional averages.

🧳 Expat Life

English Proficiency
Widely Spoken
Expat Community
Small
Top Neighborhoods
Kilifi Bofa, Plantation
Best For
digital nomads, nature lovers

Expat Life Notes

A coastal town popular with a niche set of European expats and digital nomads seeking a quieter life than Mombasa.

Pros

  • Pristine beaches
  • Relaxed lifestyle
  • High English prevalence

Cons

  • Basic infrastructure
  • Limited healthcare
  • Distance from major hubs

🌐 Infrastructure & Lifestyle

Avg Internet
Temperature
22°C°C - 31°C°C
Annual Rainfall
1450 mm
Coworking Spaces
Best Months to Visit
May, Jun, Jul, Aug

Also Consider

Frequently Asked Questions

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions about Kilifi

Click any question to expand the answer.

Kilifi has a population of approximately 1,453,787 people.

A single person can expect to spend around $875 per month in Kilifi, including rent. A 1-bedroom apartment in the city center costs approximately $350/month.

The nearest airport to Kilifi is MBA, approximately 44km away.

Kilifi is considered relatively safe, with a safety index of 65.4. As with any city abroad, expats should research specific neighborhoods before committing to a location.

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