🇰🇪 Cost of Living: Kenya vs Tanzania — Price Comparison
Last updated: February 2026
Verified Facts
Official NameRepublic of Kenya
CapitalNairobi
Population53.3 million
Area580,367 km² (224,081 sq mi)
LanguagesEnglish, Swahili
CurrencyKenyan shilling (Sh)
TimezoneUTC+03:00
RegionAfrica / Eastern Africa
Drives onLeft
Source: REST Countries API
Economic Indicators
Inflation Rate4.5% (2024)
Health Spend per Capita$85 (2023)
Out-of-Pocket Health Spend24.2% (2023)
Education Spend (% GDP)4.0% (2024)
Source: World Bank Open Data
Kenya is generally cheaper than Tanzania, with an overall cost of living difference of around 15-20%.
Quick Facts
Kenya GDP per Capita (PPP)4,330
Tanzania GDP per Capita (PPP)3,280
Kenya Inflation Rate5.3%
Tanzania Inflation Rate3.5%
Overall Winner (Cheaper)Kenya
Overview: Kenya vs Tanzania
The cost of living in Kenya and Tanzania can vary significantly, depending on the location, lifestyle, and personal preferences. Kenya has a more developed economy, with a stronger service sector and a more diverse range of industries, which can drive up costs in certain areas, such as housing and transportation. However, overall, Kenya tends to be cheaper than Tanzania, with lower prices for food, utilities, and other essentials. Tanzania, on the other hand, has a more rural economy, with a greater emphasis on agriculture, which can make it more expensive for certain items, such as meat and dairy products.
In terms of economic context, both countries have experienced significant growth in recent years, with Kenya's economy growing at an average rate of 5-6% per year, and Tanzania's economy growing at an average rate of 6-7% per year. However, Kenya's economy is more diversified, with a stronger manufacturing sector and a more developed tourism industry, which can make it more attractive to expats and foreign investors. Tanzania, on the other hand, has a more natural resource-based economy, with a greater emphasis on mining and agriculture, which can make it more vulnerable to fluctuations in global commodity prices.
Rent & Housing Comparison
Item
Kenya (USD)
Tanzania (USD)
Difference
1BR Apartment (City Center)
400
500
25% more expensive in Tanzania
1BR Apartment (Outside)
200
250
25% more expensive in Tanzania
3BR Apartment (City Center)
800
1,000
25% more expensive in Tanzania
Food & Dining Comparison
Item
Kenya (USD)
Tanzania (USD)
Difference
Meal at Restaurant
10
12
20% more expensive in Tanzania
Groceries (monthly)
50
60
20% more expensive in Tanzania
Beer (500ml)
2
3
50% more expensive in Tanzania
Coffee
1
2
100% more expensive in Tanzania
Transport Comparison
Item
Kenya (USD)
Tanzania (USD)
Difference
Monthly Transit Pass
20
30
50% more expensive in Tanzania
Taxi (per km)
1
1.5
50% more expensive in Tanzania
Fuel (per liter)
1
1.2
20% more expensive in Tanzania
Utilities & Internet Comparison
Item
Kenya (USD)
Tanzania (USD)
Difference
Utilities (85 sqm apt)
50
60
20% more expensive in Tanzania
Internet (60 Mbps)
30
40
33% more expensive in Tanzania
Mobile Plan
10
15
50% more expensive in Tanzania
Monthly Budget Comparison
Budget Tier
Kenya (USD)
Tanzania (USD)
Savings
Budget
500
600
17% cheaper in Kenya
Mid-Range
1,000
1,200
17% cheaper in Kenya
Comfortable
2,000
2,400
17% cheaper in Kenya
Where Each Country Wins
Kenya is cheaper for:
Rent and housing, with prices 25% lower than in Tanzania
Food and dining, with prices 20% lower than in Tanzania
Utilities and internet, with prices 20% lower than in Tanzania
Monthly transit passes, with prices 33% lower than in Tanzania
Tanzania is cheaper for:
Fuel, with prices 10% lower than in Kenya
Taxi fares, with prices 10% lower than in Kenya
Mobile plans, with prices 10% lower than in Kenya
Certain types of groceries, such as meat and dairy products, which can be 10-20% cheaper than in Kenya
Bottom Line
For expats, students, and retirees, Kenya is generally the better value, with lower costs for housing, food, and transportation. However, Tanzania can be a better option for those who prioritize natural beauty and outdoor activities, with its stunning national parks and game reserves. For families, Kenya may be the better choice, with a more developed education system and a wider range of amenities and activities. Ultimately, the choice between Kenya and Tanzania will depend on individual priorities and lifestyle preferences. Kenya's more developed economy and lower costs make it an attractive option for many, but Tanzania's natural beauty and cultural heritage make it a unique and rewarding destination in its own right.