Kenya continues to solidify its position as a leading destination for expatriates, ranking 14th out of 53 countries in the 2024 Expat Insider survey conducted by InterNations.
- •Since the survey began in 2014, Kenya is the only African nation consistently ranked among the top 20 global expat destinations, outperforming several other African countries such as South Africa, Morocco, and Egypt.
- •Kenya is also ranked ahead of countries such as UK, Ireland, Italy, Germany among others.
- •The survey, which garnered responses from over 12,500 expats representing 175 nationalities living in 174 countries, highlighted several factors contributing to Kenya’s appeal.
Among the most significant are the country’s warmth, affordable housing, and ease of integration into local society.
Culture, Affordable Housing and Attractive Climate
Ranking 9th globally in the Ease of Settling In Index, expats praise the friendliness of Kenyans (11th) and find it easy to build meaningful connections and friendships (7th). According to the report, these factors play a crucial role in attracting a diverse expatriate population, ranging from international retirees to professionals on corporate assignments.
Kenya’s lack of a major language barrier is another key factor that simplifies the expatriate experience. Ranking 5th globally in this area, Kenya offers a smooth transition for many expats, further supported by the ease of finding affordable housing. The country ranks 13th globally for housing affordability, with 75% of expats agreeing that finding accommodation is relatively easy compared to the global average of 45%.
The natural environment and climate also boost Kenya’s appeal. The country ranks 3rd globally for climate and weather, and 11th for its natural environment, with 91% of expats praising these factors. Kenya’s diverse landscapes, from stunning savannahs to beautiful coastlines, make it an attractive destination for those looking to experience nature alongside their professional commitments.
Challenges
While Kenya’s social warmth and affordable housing make it an attractive destination, expats do face significant challenges, particularly in terms of infrastructure and safety. Kenya ranks poorly in the Travel & Transit (51st) and Safety & Security (51st) categories. Many expats express concerns over political stability and corruption, particularly within the police force. In the survey, 24% of expatriates rated personal safety negatively, far exceeding the global average of 8%.
Personal Finance
Kenya fares better in the Personal Finance Index, ranking 17th globally. Expats enjoy a relatively high level of satisfaction with their financial situation, with only 9% expressing dissatisfaction compared to 26% globally. The general cost of living has also improved, jumping from 36th place in 2023 to 27th in 2024, adding to Kenya’s allure as an expat destination.
ALSO READ; The Untapped Economic Opportunity of a Kenyan Digital Nomad Visa