You’ve worked your whole life. Now you want the next chapter to be calm mornings, good company when you feel like it, privacy when you don’t, excellent healthcare nearby, and a beautiful environment that makes every day feel like a gift.
Here are the 8 best regions in Kenya for retirement living in 2025 – based on what our retired clients actually tell us makes them happiest.
1. Karen & Langata – The Classic Green Nairobi Retirement Choice
Wide, quiet, tree-lined streets, big gardens, fresh air, and a gentle pace of life.
- Closest top hospitals: Nairobi Hospital Karen, Gertrude’s
- Mature, established gated communities designed for over-55s
- Daily activities: golf, walking groups, garden clubs, church nearby
- 20–30 minutes from the airport when grandchildren visit Many retirees say Karen feels like “permanent vacation at home”.
2. Lavington & Kileleshwa – Urban Retirement with Everything on Your Doorstep
Perfect if you still love being near the action but want peace and quiet.
- Walk to malls, restaurants, places of worship
- Excellent private clinics and pharmacies within 5 minutes
- Modern apartments and small cottages with concierge-style services
- Easy access to both valleys and town Ideal for couples who enjoy dinners out and cultural events.
3. Runda & Muthaiga – Prestige, Space and Total Privacy
Large compounds, mature trees, and the feeling of living in the countryside while still being in Nairobi.
- Highest security standards in the city
- Quiet enough to hear birds in the morning
- Golf, tennis and social clubs a short drive away
- Plenty of room for visiting family to stay comfortably Many senior diplomats and business owners choose this area.
4. Gigiri & Rosslyn – International Feel with UN-Level Safety
Surrounded by embassies and international organisations.
- Extremely safe, calm environment
- Village Market and Two Rivers for shopping and cinema
- Top private hospitals 10–15 minutes away
- A mix of modern apartments and spacious townhouses Great for retirees who enjoy an international community.
5. Lower Kabete & Spring Valley – Karen’s Quieter, Closer Cousin
Same big-plot, leafy feel as Karen but only 15 minutes from Westlands.
- Newer gated communities built specifically for comfortable retirement living
- Cool climate, beautiful views over the valley
- Easy access to both city and countryside
- Growing number of senior-friendly amenities
6. Kiambu Road & Limuru Road Corridor – Green, Cool and Surprisingly Convenient
Coffee-farm views, cool weather, and quick access to the city via the new roads.
- Spacious homes with big gardens
- Quiet, rural atmosphere with modern security
- Good private healthcare facilities opening along the corridor
- Perfect balance of peace and accessibility
7. North Coast (Vipingo, Kilifi, Watamu area) – The Beach Retirement Dream
Warm weather all year, ocean views, and a relaxed coastal pace.
- Gated golf and beach communities designed for active retirement
- Private healthcare facilities and airstrips nearby
- Daily swimming, sailing, golf, fresh seafood
- 45-minute flight or easy drive from Nairobi Many retirees split time between Nairobi and the coast.
8. Lake Naivasha & Great Rift Valley Escarpment – Nature Lover’s Retirement
Stunning views, clean air, and wildlife on your doorstep.
- Small, secure communities with lake or escarpment views
- Boating, bird-watching, flower farms, weekend markets
- Cool evenings perfect for sundowners
- 90-minute drive from Nairobi Perfect for couples who want adventure without leaving Kenya.
Quick Comparison Table – Retirement Homes in Kenya 2025 (by Region)
| Region | Climate | Proximity to Top Hospitals | Social Life | Property Style | Travel Time from Airport |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Karen / Langata | Cool & green | 10–15 min | Very active | Big gardens & cottages | 35–45 min |
| Lavington / Kileleshwa | Pleasant | 10–20 min | Vibrant | Modern apartments | 30–40 min |
| Runda / Muthaiga | Cool | 15–25 min | Exclusive | Large compounds | 30–40 min |
| Gigiri / Rosslyn | Pleasant | 15–25 min | International | Mix of both | 25–35 min |
| North Coast | Warm & breezy | 20–40 min (Mombasa) | Relaxed | Beachfront villas | 1-hour flight |
The Bottom Line
The best retirement homes in Kenya are no longer about “down-sizing” — they’re about “right-sizing” your life to exactly what brings you joy every single day.
Whether you want birdsong in Karen, ocean breezes on the coast, or the gentle buzz of Lavington, there is a perfect corner of Kenya waiting for your golden years.
Want the free 2025 Retirement Region Match Guide that helps you choose the perfect area based on your health needs, hobbies, budget and family visiting patterns? Contact Realty Boris today –for the best tips and insights to real estate investment for your retirement.
