Life Update: Settling into Our New Home in Nairobi

theorabrooks
Sep 19
3 min read

When we first shared that we were making the big move to Nairobi, Kenya, we promised to bring you along on the journey — the good, the surprising, and the lessons learned. It’s been quite an adventure already, and I wanted to give our Free Feet Family community an update on how we’re doing, plus some tips for anyone thinking about making a similar move.

Coffee, Comfort, and Little Joys ☕🥧

Back in the States, I was a total Starbucks girly — I easily spent $10–$13 a day on my favorite drink. Here in Nairobi, I still get my daily coffee fix, but the difference is amazing. A cup of coffee at a local café runs about 350 KES (around $2.60), and if I add a chicken pie, the total is only 700 KES (about $5.30).

Not only is it more affordable, but coffee shops here are beautiful. The design, the vibe, the aesthetics — every café feels like a treat. It’s become one of my favorite parts of daily life.

Finding Our Home 🏡

When we first arrived, we stayed in an Airbnb for one month while we searched for something more permanent. Nairobi has housing options for every taste and budget, but it’s important to know what matters most to you.

For us, safety, proximity to school and shops, and community were priorities. We ended up finding a spacious 4-bedroom, 3.5 bath townhouse with a DSQ (domestic servants’ quarter) in a secure gated community. There are children for our son to play with, plus amenities like a pool, gym, and even a coffee shop nearby. It truly feels like the right fit.

Lessons on Furnishing a Home 🛋️

Here’s where things got interesting: most rental units in Nairobi do not come with major appliances like stoves or refrigerators. That means you’ll need to factor these into your moving budget.

We shipped one pallet of clothes and a few household items from the U.S., but looking back, I wish we had shipped more — especially basics like sheets, blankets, and kitchen utensils. Starting from scratch meant we’ve had to furnish an entire house here.

The good news? Kenya is full of incredibly skilled artisans. It’s very common to go to a fundi (craftsman) with your own designs and measurements, and they’ll build your furniture for a fraction of what it would cost in the U.S. We even have a couch being custom made, and I can’t wait to show you the results!

Everyday Life & Costs 💰

If you’re planning a move here, one of the biggest things to know is that everything is negotiable. From household goods to groceries to beauty services — bargaining is part of the culture. Vendors aren’t trying to cheat you; it’s simply how business is done.

For the best deals, head to “town” — Nairobi’s Central Business District (CBD). Prices there can be a quarter of what you’ll pay in the suburbs, though it’s more crowded and fast-paced. Personally, I’ve come to enjoy the hustle and bustle of CBD days.

And let’s talk beauty: in our area, a manicure or wax might start at 3,500 KES (~$26). But in town? The same services start as low as 500 KES (~$3.80). Worth the trip, trust me!

Looking Ahead 🌍

So far, Nairobi has been everything we hoped for and more. It’s a place where you can find modern comforts while also learning new ways of living. We’re adjusting, we’re learning, and we’re excited to keep sharing this journey with you.

If you’re thinking of moving here, I hope these insights help you prepare. From coffee shops to custom couches, Nairobi is full of surprises — and we’re just getting started.

Schedule a one-on-one call with us if you have questions about moving.

Schedule your call today