Looking to buy a house in Nakuru, Kenya? You’re making a smart move. As one of Kenya’s fastest-growing cities and the fourth largest urban center, Nakuru offers affordable housing, serene highland weather, and strong investment potential—all just 160km northwest of Nairobi.
Whether you’re a first-time buyer, investor, or returning resident, Nakuru’s real estate market is booming thanks to improved infrastructure, industrial growth, and its status as a Harambee County capital.
Here’s your complete guide to buying a house in Nakuru in 2024.
Why Buy a House in Nakuru?
✅ Affordable Prices – Lower than Nairobi with similar quality
✅ Cool Climate – Highland location (1,800m above sea level)
✅ Strategic Location – On the Nairobi-Naivasha-Nakuru highway and SGR line
✅ Growth Potential – Rapid urbanization and government development
✅ Rental Demand – High from students, workers, and healthcare professionals
Top Areas to Buy a House in Nakuru
1. Lanet
Best for: Families, affordability, and convenience
- Well-established, secure neighborhood
- Close to schools, hospitals, and shopping centers
- Mix of bungalows, townhouses, and apartments
- Price range: KSh 5M – 20M
2. Milimani
Best for: Professionals and expats
- Upscale, planned estate with paved roads and security
- Home to government offices and private firms
- Price range: KSh 8M – 30M
- Popular for rental income (6–8% annual yield)
3. Nakuru Town Centre (Pardisan, Kaptembwa)
Best for: Investors and commercial-residential use
- Central location with high foot traffic
- Apartments above shops are popular for rentals
- Price range: KSh 4M – 15M (apartments)
4. Menengai & Upper Nakuru
Best for: Peace, privacy, and larger plots
- Quieter, elevated areas with scenic views
- Ideal for building custom homes
- Plot prices: KSh 1.5M – 5M (1/8 to 1/4 acre)
5. Egerton & Maili Saba
Best for: Students and rental investors
- Near Egerton University and Moi Teaching Hospital
- High demand for student housing and staff rentals
- Price range: KSh 4M – 12M for 2–3 bedroom homes
Average House Prices in Nakuru (2024)
| 2-Bed Apartment | Lanet, Maili Saba | 4M – 8M |
| 3-Bed Family House | Milimani, Lanet | 10M – 25M |
| Townhouse | Nakuru West, Upper Nakuru | 12M – 30M |
| 1/8 Acre Plot | Menengai, Maili Kenda | 1.5M – 4M |
| Off-Plan Homes | New developments | 5M – 15M (with payment plans) |
💡 Tip: Many developers offer installment plans—pay 10–20% deposit, then KSh 30,000–60,000/month for 3–5 years.
How to Buy a House in Nakuru: 5 Simple Steps
- Set Your Budget & Financing
- Use savings, SACCO loans (e.g., Nakuru Sacco), or bank mortgages (KCB, Equity)
- NHF members can access low-interest home loans
- Work with a Licensed Agent & Lawyer
- Hire professionals registered with IREM or LS Kenya
- Avoid unverified “brokers” offering deals that seem too good to be true
- Conduct Due Diligence
- Perform a land search at the Nakuru Lands Registry
- Confirm the title deed is clear (Individual, Sublease, or Strata)
- Check for unpaid land rates or disputes
- Sign Sale Agreement & Pay Deposit
- Typically 10% of price (held in escrow)
- Agreement should include payment terms, handover date, and penalties
- Complete Transfer & Registration
- Pay stamp duty (4–6%), legal fees (1–2%), and registration costs
- Full process takes 6–10 weeks
Investment Tips for Nakuru Buyers
- Target rental hotspots: Near Egerton University, Moi Hospital, and industrial areas
- Buy in master-planned estates: For better security and resale value
- Consider off-plan projects: Lower entry cost and payment flexibility
- Watch for infrastructure: New roads and SGR expansion are boosting prices in Upper Nakuru and Maili Kenda
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can a foreigner buy a house in Nakuru?
A: Yes. Foreigners can buy property on leasehold (up to 99 years). Freehold is mostly for Kenyan citizens.
Q: Is Nakuru safe for property investment?
A: Yes—areas like Milimani, Lanet, and Upper Nakuru are secure, well-serviced, and growing in value.
Q: How much deposit do I need to buy a house in Nakuru?
A: Typically 10–30% for mortgages. Off-plan homes may require KSh 500,000 – 2M booking fee.
Final Thoughts
Buying a house in Nakuru is a smart, affordable way to enter Kenya’s real estate market. With lower prices than Nairobi, strong rental demand, and rapid development, Nakuru offers excellent value for homeowners and investors alike.
