Moving to Mombasa

Living in Mombasa as an expat

Expats moving to Mombasa can look forward to a vibrant, loud and bustling city by the sea. As Kenya's second-largest city and a key regional economic hub, Mombasa's popularity as an expat destination is certainly on the rise. Tourists are also increasingly visiting Mombasa, attracted by the beautiful coastal landscapes and warm weather for fantastic getaways, sunbathing, snorkelling and savouring fresh seafood.

Mombasa is home to a mosaic of different cultures, and expats living in the city are likely to experience some level of culture shock. It's not quite as cosmopolitan as the Kenyan capital of Nairobi, and expats should dress modestly, as a large proportion of Mombasa's locals are Muslim.

Working in Mombasa

Expats are often drawn to Mombasa to take up jobs in mining, manufacturing, energy and oil. Large numbers of people also move to Mombasa to volunteer and work for NGOs. The city is a major coastal tourist spot, and the hospitality industry is another prominent regional income generator.

Expats looking to work in Mombasa will need a work residence permit to legally live and work in Kenya. Fortunately, applying for a Kenyan work residence permit is a straightforward process, but it will involve several steps. 

Working in Kenya
Work Permits in Kenya
Visas for Kenya

Lifestyle in Mombasa

Mombasa offers a laid-back coastal lifestyle that blends rich Swahili culture with modern conveniences, making it an appealing destination for expats seeking both adventure and comfort. Days can be spent enjoying pristine beaches, diving in coral reefs, or exploring historical sites like Fort Jesus. 

The city also boasts a vibrant shopping scene, from bustling open-air markets and spice bazaars in Old Town to modern malls like Nyali Centre and City Mall, offering international brands and local crafts. You can expect a warm, welcoming community, a slower pace of life, and relatively affordable living costs, though infrastructure and healthcare may vary in quality.

Overall, Mombasa provides a unique mix of tropical charm and cultural depth, ideal for those looking to embrace a more relaxed yet engaging way of life.

Finding accommodation in Mombasa

Accommodation in Mombasa offers a variety of options to suit different budgets and lifestyles, ranging from modern apartments and gated communities to beachside villas and serviced apartments. The standard of accommodation for expats living in Mombasa is high. Houses and apartments tend to be spacious and modern, yet fairly affordable, and most expats choose accommodation within a secure gated community.

Popular areas for expats include Nyali, with its proximity to international schools, shopping malls, and the beach, and Tudor or Bamburi, which offer more affordable housing while still being relatively central. 

Demand for suitable expat-friendly accommodation in Mombasa remains high, particularly in secure, well-maintained complexes. We recommend working with a reputable local agent who understands the nuances of the market. Most rentals are unfurnished, so you should consider the cost and time needed to furnish your home.

As is the case in most large Kenyan cities, safety, and security are concerns for expats. While the authorities in Mombasa have taken steps to implement safety measures by introducing security patrols in certain parts of the city centre and along the beaches, you should still take precautions, especially when looking for a rental home. 

Accommodation in Kenya
Safety in Kenya

Cost of living in Mombasa

The cost of living in Mombasa is reasonable. While it can be hard to find home comforts, you'll have easy access to several luxuries, thanks to the buying power expats usually have in Kenya.

The standard of healthcare provision in Mombasa varies considerably. If you want access to the best quality private healthcare, you should ensure they have a comprehensive insurance policy. 

Cost of Living in Kenya

Living in Mombasa with children

There's no shortage of activities to keep expats occupied in this colourful, vibrant city. From relaxing on Mombasa's stunning beaches and chasing bargains at Kongowea's open-air market, to discovering more about Kenya's fascinating history or getting some fresh air along the Bamburi nature trails, there is something for everyone in the family to enjoy.

Public healthcare in Kenya is largely considered inadequate, so most expats rely on private healthcare in the country. Mombasa's major private hospitals have good facilities and English-speaking medical staff.

Healthcare in Kenya

Finding a school in Mombasa

While public schools in Kenya may be free for all, expats may find the quality variable and often opt to send their children to private or international schools. Most private and international schools follow the British curriculum, but expat parents will be delighted to find that some offer country-specific curricula or the globally recognised International Baccalaureate. 

Education and Schools in Kenya

Getting around in Mombasa

In terms of transport, the safest way for expats to get around in Mombasa is to hire a car with a local driver. Driving in the city can be dangerous, and road traffic accidents are common. This is because road conditions and signage are generally poor. That said, travelling by public transport or riding in a local tuk-tuk does make for an interesting experience.

Transport and Driving in Kenya

Climate in Mombasa

Mombasa has a tropical climate. Summers, from November to April, are muggy and overcast; winters, from June to September, are cooler, dry, windy, and marked by clear skies. Rainfall is not particularly abundant outside the 'long rains' season during April and May. During this time, floods and power outages can occur. A second 'short rains' season visits Kenya from October to December, but this is not particularly evident in the country's second-largest city.

You may take a while to adjust to the slow, relaxed pace of life in Mombasa, but with a little patience and an open mind, you'll find your experience rewarding.