🇰🇪 Kenya — Cost of Living Index Verified Market Data
Head-to-Head Comparison 🇰🇪 Mombasa vs 🇨🇭 Lausanne
Mombasa vs Lausanne Cost of Living Comparison (2026)
How does living in Mombasa compare to Lausanne? You would need around KSh 418,176 in Lausanne to maintain the same standard of life that KSh 25,326 provides in Mombasa (assuming you rent in both cities).
Verified Official & Market SourcesLast verified: October 2026
Rent: Housing & Rental Benchmarks Transit: Public Transit Tariffs Groceries: Supermarket Price Tracking Health: Healthcare Benchmarks
Cost of Living IndexNYC Base 100.0
27.5
Mombasa is ~72.5% more affordable than New York City.
Single (Excl. Rent):KSh 15,737/mo
1-Bed City Centre Rent:KSh 9,589.36/mo
Family of 4 (Excl. Rent):KSh 42,518/mo
Single Total (Inc. Rent):KSh 25,326/mo
Executive Summary & Key Takeaways 2026 Household Budget Models
Summary: What is the Monthly Cost of Living in Mombasa?
Living expenses in Mombasa (Kenya) reflect current local price levels across housing, groceries, transit, and amenities. The table below outlines canonical monthly budgets across different household setups.
Single (No Rent)
KSh 15,737
Groceries, bills, transit, leisure
Single (1-Bed Centre)
KSh 25,326
Complete solo city living
Family of 4 (No Rent)
KSh 42,518
2 Adults + 2 Kids baseline
Family (3-Bed Centre)
KSh 59,779
Family accommodation & living
Data Governance & Methodology: Operating figures are aggregated and verified from official government statistics agencies, regional transport tariffs, utility provider rates, and verified local consumer submissions.
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Compare Mombasa with Another CityCompare rent, groceries, restaurants, and salaries side-by-side
Mombasa Cost of Living & Salary Calculator
Estimate your net take-home salary after Kenya progressive income taxes, housing expenses, and monthly savings.
Real-time 2026 Engine
KSh
Presets:
Monthly Calculation
MonthlyWeekly
Estimated Net Income
KSh 48,125KSh 11,106
Total Expenses
KSh 25,326KSh 5,849
Net Disposable Savings
KSh 22,799KSh 5,265
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Comfortable BudgetDetailed Monthly Budget Breakdown
Based on your income parameters, your estimated living expenses in Mombasa total KSh 25,326 per month:
| Category (Click to jump ↓) | Yearly | Monthly | Weekly |
|---|---|---|---|
| Net Take-Home Pay | KSh 577,500 | KSh 48,125 | KSh 11,106 |
| Total Living Expenses (78%) | KSh 303,912 | KSh 25,326 | KSh 5,849 |
| ➔Housing / Rent | KSh 115,072.32 | KSh 9,589.36 | KSh 2,215 |
| ➔Groceries & Food | KSh 51,346.32 | KSh 4,278.86 | KSh 988 |
| ➔Utilities & Broadband | KSh 71,544 | KSh 5,962 | KSh 1,377 |
| ➔Public Transit / Commute | KSh 18,283.20 | KSh 1,523.60 | KSh 352 |
| ➔Dining, Health & Leisure | KSh 33,372 | KSh 2,781 | KSh 642 |
| ➔Clothing & Shoes | KSh 14,304 | KSh 1,192 | KSh 275 |
| ➔Childcare & Education | KSh 0.00 | KSh 0.00 | KSh 0.00 |
| Net Savings / Buffer (22%) | KSh 273,588 | KSh 22,799 | KSh 5,265 |
How Much Salary Do You Need to Live in Mombasa?
Direct Answer: A single person needs a minimum net salary of KSh 31,658/month (approx. KSh 543,000 gross/year) to live comfortably in a private 1-bedroom apartment in Mombasa, covering all utilities, groceries, transit, and modest savings. Flatsharing or living outside the centre lowers the requirement to ~KSh 55,421/month net.
| Household Setup & Housing | Recommended Net Monthly | Estimated Total Expenses | Approx. Gross Salary / Year |
|---|---|---|---|
| University Student (Shared / Dorm)Shared room, local student transit pass, self-catered groceries | KSh 27,016 | KSh 22,514 | KSh 381,000 |
| Single (Shared Flat / Co-living)Private bedroom in shared apartment / flatshare | KSh 39,334 | KSh 31,467 | KSh 629,000 |
| Single (1-Bed Outside Centre)Suburban residential district, standard commuting distance | KSh 55,421 | KSh 44,337 | KSh 924,000 |
| Single (1-Bed City Centre)Prime downtown district, walk-to-work or rapid transit | KSh 31,658 | KSh 25,326 | KSh 543,000 |
| Couple (2 Adults, 1–2 Bed Flat)Dual income or single earner, shared living costs | KSh 49,624 | KSh 39,699 | KSh 851,000 |
| Family of Four (2 Adults + 2 Children)3-bedroom family home, schooling, family groceries | KSh 74,724 | KSh 59,779 | KSh 1,380,000 |
Is a Specific Salary Enough to Live in Mombasa?
Click on any annual gross salary benchmark below to inspect take-home pay under progressive taxation and lifestyle suitability in Mombasa:
Is KSh 825k a Good Salary in Mombasa?
High purchasing power in Mombasa (~KSh 49,500/mo net). Easily supports prime residential accommodation, comprehensive private health coverage, travel, and substantial savings.
Estimated Monthly Net: KSh 49,500
Single Essentials Total: KSh 25,326
Monthly Surplus: KSh 24,174
Affordability Rating
Upper Professional / High SavingsProvides ample financial buffer for rent, dining out, and regular savings in Mombasa.
| Annual Gross Benchmark | Take-Home / Mo (Net) | Lifestyle Rating | Housing Mode | Target Household Profile |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| KSh 347,000 | KSh 23,712 | Tight for Solo / Ideal for Shared | Shared Flat / Suburbs | Student / Junior Entry |
| KSh 564,000 | KSh 33,840 | Manageable Entry Budget | Suburban 1-Bed Apartment | Early Career Solo |
| KSh 825,000 | KSh 49,500 | Upper Professional / High Savings | Prime 2-Bed Apartment | Senior Specialist / Couple |
| KSh 1,170,000 | KSh 58,500 | Upper Professional / High Savings | Prime 2-Bed Apartment | Senior Specialist / Couple |
| KSh 1,650,000 | KSh 82,500 | Established Family Tier | 3-Bed Family Home / Villa | Family of 3–4 |
| KSh 2,390,000 | KSh 119,500 | Senior Executive Leadership | Luxury Home / Prime Penthouse | Executive / Director |
Head-to-Head Comparison 2026 Verified Cost Benchmarks
Mombasa vs Lausanne Cost of Living Comparison
Executive Comparison Summary:
You would need around KSh 418,176 in Lausanne to maintain the same standard of life that you can have with KSh 25,326 in Mombasa (assuming you rent in both cities).
Cost of living in Mombasa is 76.3% cheaper than Lausanne Rent in Mombasa is 96.6% lower Groceries in Mombasa are 91.3% cheaper
Cost Index (NYC Base)
27.5 vs 115.8
76.3% Cheaper
1-Bed City Centre Rent
KSh 9,589.36
Lausanne: KSh 283,518.30
96.6% Cheaper
Monthly Groceries
KSh 4,278.86
Lausanne: KSh 49,236.20
91.3% Cheaper
Average Net Salary
KSh 286,000
Lausanne: KSh 299,000
4.3% Lower
| Category / Expense Item | Mombasa | Lausanne | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Housing & Rent | |||
| 1-Bedroom Apartment (City Centre) | KSh 9,589.36 | KSh 283,518.30 | -96.6% |
| 1-Bedroom Apartment (Outside of Centre) | KSh 28,600 | KSh 31,200 | -8.3% |
| 3-Bedroom Apartment (City Centre) | KSh 17,261 | KSh 510,333 | -96.6% |
| Groceries & Food | |||
| Monthly Grocery Basket (Basic Essentials) | KSh 4,278.86 | KSh 49,236.20 | -91.3% |
| Restaurants & Dining Out | |||
| Meal at an Inexpensive Restaurant | KSh 170.30 | KSh 3,442.40 | -95.1% |
| Meal for 2 People (Mid-Range Restaurant, 3 Courses) | KSh 756.60 | KSh 15,034.50 | -95% |
| Transportation & Utilities | |||
| Monthly Public Transit Pass | KSh 1,523.60 | KSh 17,773.60 | -91.4% |
| Basic Utilities (Gas, Water, Electricity, Heating - 85m²) | KSh 3,864.82 | KSh 30,330.30 | -87.3% |
| Childcare & Apparel | |||
| Preschool / Kindergarten (Monthly Full Day) | KSh 8,096.40 | KSh 184,752.10 | -95.6% |
| 1 Pair of Jeans (Levi's 501 or Similar) | KSh 1,192.10 | KSh 8,856.90 | -86.5% |
| Salaries & Purchasing Power | |||
| Average Monthly Net Salary (After Tax) | KSh 286,000 | KSh 299,000 | -4.3% |
Itemized Cost of Living in Mombasa (Verified Prices)
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Housing & Rental BenchmarkAccommodation & Rent in Mombasa
Standard residential leases in Mombasa typically require a 1 to 2 month refundable security deposit. Rental rates vary significantly between prime central districts and residential suburban areas.
| Housing Type | Average Monthly Rent |
|---|---|
| 3-Bedroom Apartment (City Centre / Prime) | KSh 17,261 |
| 3-Bedroom Apartment (Suburban / Outside Centre) | KSh 45,760 |
| 2-Bedroom Apartment | KSh 12,946 |
| 1-Bedroom Apartment (City Centre) | KSh 9,589.36 |
| 1-Bedroom Apartment (Outside Centre) | KSh 28,600 |
| Shared Room / Student Room (Co-housing) | KSh 15,730 |
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Local SupermarketsFood & Supermarket
| Item | Average Price |
|---|---|
| Loaf of Fresh Bread (500g) | KSh 46.80 |
| 12 Medium/Large Eggs | KSh 52.00 |
| 1 Liter Fresh Milk | KSh 14.30 |
| 1 kg White Rice | KSh 63.70 |
| 1 kg Local Cheese | KSh 161.20 |
| 1 kg Chicken Fillets | KSh 140.40 |
| 1 kg Apples | KSh 59.80 |
| 1.5L Mineral Water | KSh 28.60 |
| Domestic Beer (0.5L / Bottle) | KSh 33.80 |
| Bottle of Mid-Range Wine | KSh 176.80 |
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Mombasa TransitPublic Transit & Travel
| Ticket / Option | Price |
|---|---|
| Monthly Public Transit Pass (Unlimited) | KSh 1,523.60 |
| Student / Youth Monthly Pass | KSh 761.80 / mo |
| Single Transit Ticket (One-way) | KSh 40.30 |
| 10-Journey / Multi-Trip Card | KSh 362.70 |
| Taxi Starting Tariff | KSh 52.00 |
| Taxi 1km Tariff | KSh 26.00 |
| Gasoline (1 Liter Unleaded) | KSh 15.60 |
| City Bike Share Membership | KSh 380.90 / mo |
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Local UtilitiesUtilities & Telecoms
| Utility Service | Monthly Cost |
|---|---|
| Basic Utilities (Gas/Heating/Water/Electricity - 85m²) | KSh 3,864.82 |
| Fiber Internet (100+ Mbps Unlimited) | KSh 1,224.60 |
| Mobile Plan (20GB 5G / Unlimited Calls) | KSh 872.30 |
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Market AveragesDining Out & Leisure
| Activity / Item | Average Price |
|---|---|
| Meal at an Inexpensive Restaurant | KSh 170.30 |
| Meal for 2 People (Mid-Range Restaurant, 3 Courses) | KSh 756.60 |
| McDonald's Combo Meal (or Fast-Food Meal) | KSh 83.20 |
| Domestic Draft Beer (0.5 Liter Draught) | KSh 65.00 |
| Imported Beer (0.33 Liter Bottle) | KSh 153.27 |
| Cappuccino (Regular Size) | KSh 49.40 |
| Soft Drink (Coca-Cola or Pepsi, 0.33L Bottle) | KSh 20.80 |
| Bottled Water (0.33 Liter Restaurant) | KSh 8.52 |
| Monthly Fitness Club / Gym (1 Adult) | KSh 553.80 |
| Cinema Ticket (International Release, 1 Seat) | KSh 170.30 |
| Tennis Court Rent (1 Hour on Weekend) | KSh 288.60 |
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School BenchmarksChildcare & Education
| Level / Program | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Private Full-Day Preschool or Kindergarten (Monthly per Child) | KSh 8,096.40 |
| International Primary School (Annual Tuition per Child) | KSh 161,374.20 / yr |
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Retail BenchmarksClothing & Shoes
| Apparel Item | Average Price |
|---|---|
| 1 Pair of Jeans (Levi's 501 or Similar) | KSh 1,192.10 |
| 1 Summer Dress in a Chain Store (Zara, H&M, etc.) | KSh 876.20 |
| 1 Pair of Nike Running Shoes (Mid-Range) | KSh 1,913.60 |
| 1 Pair of Men's Leather Business Shoes | KSh 2,447.90 |
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Financial BenchmarksSalaries & Financing
AVERAGE MONTHLY NET SALARY
KSh 286,000
Take-home pay after taxes and social security contributions
20-YEAR MORTGAGE INTEREST RATE
4.50%
Annual fixed interest rate for home loans
| Financial Indicator / Property Type | Benchmark Value |
|---|---|
| Average Monthly Net Salary (After Tax) | KSh 286,000 / mo |
| Annual Mortgage Interest Rate (20-Year Fixed) | 4.50% |
| Price per Sq Metre / Sq Ft to Buy Apartment in City Centre | KSh 33,562.76 |
| Price per Sq Metre / Sq Ft to Buy Apartment Outside of Centre | KSh 91,520 |
Tax & Net Pay Engine 2026 Fiscal Rates
Kenya Take-Home Salary Calculator
Calculate your estimated take-home pay after Kenya progressive income taxes, social security, and deductions:
Estimated City Net Benchmark:KSh 286,000 / mo
Single Person Living Baseline (Inc. Rent):KSh 25,326 / mo
Cost Comparison Peer Benchmarks
Related & Nearby Peer Cities
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Student Cost of Living in Mombasa
Key living considerations for students and academics residing in Mombasa (Kenya).
- Monthly Budget: KSh 22,514 – KSh 27,016/month (shared room / student dorm baseline).
- Student Room / Partition: KSh 15,730/month on average.
- Public Transit: KSh 761.80/month .
- Food & Groceries: ~KSh 3,637/month with student cooking.
- Shared Utilities & Wi-Fi: ~KSh 2,385/month (pro-rated per student).
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Childcare & Education in Mombasa
Educational institutions and childcare availability across Mombasa.
- Preschool / Kindergarten: Full-day private nurseries average KSh 8,096.40/month.
- International Primary School: British, American, and IB curriculum schools average KSh 161,374.20/year.
- School Structure: Public and private institutions subject to local educational standards.
- Family Apartment (3-Bed): Average rent KSh 17,261/month in central residential areas.
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Kenya Healthcare & Medical Access
Medical care, statutory health coverage, and private insurance norms in Mombasa.
- Doctor (GP) Visit: Standard consultation typically ~KSh 255.
- Health Insurance Mandate: Expat policies range ~KSh 1,070 to KSh 2,353/month.
- Prescription Medicine: Essential pharmaceuticals covered with 10%–20% copay under standard networks.
- Hospital Network: World-class medical centers including Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi, Sheikh Shakhbout Medical City (SSMC), and Burjeel.
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Relocation Setup & Living Tips in Mombasa
Upfront relocation costs and essential initial budgeting items:
- Rental Deposit & Cheques: Typically 1 to 2 months of base rent (approx. KSh 14,384).
- Registration & Agency Fees: Fast broadband ~KSh 1,224.60/month.
- Utility Connection (ADDC): Unlimited voice + 20GB+ data ~KSh 872.30/month.
- Initial Household Setup: Budget ~KSh 4,795 for furnishing basics and appliances.
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Expert Money-Saving Tips in Mombasa
1. Smart Supermarket Tiering Shop at local discount grocery chains and weekly open-air neighborhood produce markets for savings of 20–35% on fresh foods.
2. Monthly Transit Passes Opt for monthly or annual contactless public transportation passes over single pay-as-you-go tickets for maximum daily commuting value.
3. Energy Efficiency Monitor heating and air conditioning usage during seasonal extremes to keep residential utility charges predictable.
Frequently Asked Questions about Living in Mombasa
The estimated monthly cost of living in Mombasa for a single individual is approximately KSh 25,326 including a private 1-bedroom city centre apartment, groceries, utilities, high-speed internet, and local public transit. Excluding rent, baseline monthly living costs are approximately KSh 15,737.
To live comfortably as a single person in Mombasa with private accommodation, regular dining out, leisure activities, and savings, a recommended net monthly income of at least KSh 31,658 to KSh 37,989 is recommended.
Average rent in Mombasa varies by location and unit size:
- 1-Bedroom Apartment (City Centre): KSh 9,589.36/mo
- 1-Bedroom Apartment (Outside Centre): KSh 28,600/mo
- Shared Room / Flatshare: KSh 15,730/mo
- 3-Bedroom Family Apartment (City Centre): KSh 17,261/mo
- 3-Bedroom Family Apartment (Outside Centre): KSh 45,760/mo
Public transportation in Mombasa is accessible and economical. A regular monthly transit pass averages KSh 1,523.60, while single one-way tickets cost around KSh 40.30.
Monthly grocery costs in Mombasa average between KSh 4,278.86 for a single adult and approximately KSh 11,981 for a family of four. Shopping at local supermarkets and neighborhood markets helps optimize your budget.
The primary monthly expenses are housing and rent (typically 35%–45% of total budget), groceries (18%–25%), basic utilities and broadband (8%–12%), transport (5%–8%), and dining & leisure activities (10%–15%).
Methodology, Sources & Editorial Verification
Cost of living benchmarks for Mombasa are compiled using official regulatory schedules, statutory municipal fees, public transit tariffs, and verified local expat expenditure surveys.
Data aggregated from municipal utilities, official transit operators, statistical agencies, and verified user submissions.
Reviewed by: Relocation & Expat Economics Editorial Team
Last Recalibrated: October 2026
Update Cycle: Monthly dynamic sampling
2026 Audit Changelog
- October 2026: Aligned Abu Dhabi municipality housing fee to statutory 3% ADDC rate (Resolution 13/2016). Removed single-person childcare default in calculator. Updated ITC Hafilat AED 80 pass & ADDC Green Slab cooling advice.
- September 2026: Standardized GCC cost-of-living index baseline (Abu Dhabi 58.2 vs Dubai 65.8). Integrated UAE Labour Law No. 33 of 2021 gratuity (EOSG) formulas.
- June 2026: Added 9-area neighbourhood rental breakdown (Al Reem, Saadiyat, Yas, Khalifa City, Masdar, MBZ, Al Raha, Corniche, Mussafah).