Dreaming of ocean views, tropical breezes, and a relaxed coastal lifestyle? Buying a house in Mombasa offers the perfect mix of beauty, affordability, and investment potential. Whether you’re looking for a holiday home, rental property, or permanent residence, Mombasa’s real estate market has something for everyone.
From upscale beachfront apartments to family-friendly gated communities, here’s your complete guide to buying a house in Mombasa in 2024.
Top Areas to Buy a House in Mombasa
1. Nyali
Best for: Upscale living, expats, families
- One of Mombasa’s most prestigious suburbs
- Gated estates, international schools, shopping malls
- High demand for rentals and holiday homes
- Price range: KSh 15M – 80M+
- Apartments: KSh 15M – 35M
- Villas: KSh 50M – 100M+
2. Bamburi
Best for: Affordable beachfront living
- Popular with locals and investors
- Direct beach access, quieter than Nyali
- Many off-plan developments with payment plans
- Price range: KSh 8M – 40M
- 2–3 bedroom homes: KSh 10M – 25M
3. Shanzu
Best for: Beach lovers and rental income
- Beautiful beaches, close to tourist hotspots
- Mix of private homes and holiday apartments
- Strong Airbnb and short-term rental market
- Price range: KSh 12M – 50M
4. Kizingo & Mtwapa
- Kizingo: Elite area with large plots and villas (KSh 50M – 200M+)
- Mtwapa: Growing hub with modern estates and marina access (KSh 10M – 30M)
Average House Prices in Mombasa (2024)
| 2-Bed Apartment | Bamburi, Mtwapa | 8M – 18M |
| 3-Bed Family House | Nyali, Shanzu | 20M – 40M |
| Beachfront Villa | Nyali, Kizingo | 50M – 150M+ |
| Off-Plan Unit | Bamburi, Shanzu | 6M – 15M (booking fee + installments) |
💡 Tip: Off-plan projects often offer 10–20% lower prices with 2–5 year payment plans—ideal for budget buyers.
Why Buy a House in Mombasa?
✅ Tourism & Rental Income: High demand for holiday rentals (6–10% annual yield)
✅ Lifestyle: Beach access, warm climate, relaxed pace
✅ Infrastructure Growth: New roads, Dongo Kundu Bypass, and port expansion boosting value
✅ Affordability: Lower prices than Nairobi for similar-sized homes
How to Buy a House in Mombasa: 5 Key Steps
- Set Your Budget & Financing
- Cash buyers move faster
- Mortgages available through KCB, Co-op, and local developers
- Foreigners: Can buy on leasehold (up to 99 years)
- Choose a Reputable Agent & Lawyer
- Work with licensed professionals familiar with coastal property
- Verify titles at the Ministry of Lands – Mombasa Branch
- Conduct Due Diligence
- Perform a land search to confirm ownership
- Check for flood zones, especially in low-lying areas
- Confirm access to water, electricity, and sewer
- Sign Agreement & Pay Deposit
- Typically 10% deposit (held in escrow)
- Full payment or mortgage disbursement follows
- Complete Transfer
- Stamp duty (4–6%), legal fees (1–2%)
- Registration takes 4–8 weeks
Investment Tips for Buyers
- Target rental hotspots: Nyali, Shanzu, and Mtwapa attract tourists and expats
- Avoid unapproved developments: Stick to titled, gated estates
- Consider off-plan for lower entry: Pay KSh 1M–2M to book, then monthly installments
- Foreign ownership: Allowed on leasehold; consider using a local company for ease
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can a foreigner buy a house in Mombasa?
A: Yes. Foreigners can buy property on leasehold (up to 99 years), especially apartments and villas in approved estates.
Q: Is Mombasa safe for property investment?
A: Yes—areas like Nyali, Bamburi, and Shanzu are secure, well-developed, and popular with investors.
Q: How much deposit do I need?
A: Typically 10–30% for ready homes. Off-plan units may require 5–15% booking fee with balance in installments.
Final Thoughts
Buying a house in Mombasa is a smart move for lifestyle and investment. With beautiful beaches, growing infrastructure, and competitive prices, the coastal city offers excellent value compared to Nairobi.
