Why Live in Thika, Kenya

by admin_crel on April 25, 2025

Living in Thika, Kenya, offers a unique blend of affordability, convenience, and a growing number of amenities. Here’s a breakdown of why one might choose to call Thika home:  

Affordability:

• Lower Cost of Living: Generally, Thika boasts a lower cost of living compared to Nairobi, especially when it comes to housing.  
• Reasonable Housing Costs:
  • Apartments can range from Ksh 15,000 to 30,000 per month for a one or two-bedroom unit.  
  • Renting a single-family home might cost between Ksh 25,000 and 50,000 per month.
  • Gated community townhouses can be found starting from around Ksh 50,000 per month.
• Budget-Friendly Options: Thika provides more budget-friendly housing without sacrificing quality.

Convenience and Accessibility:

• Proximity to Nairobi: Thika is conveniently located approximately 40 kilometers northeast of Nairobi.
• Easy Commute: The well-maintained Thika Superhighway facilitates a manageable commute to Nairobi for work or other purposes.
• Well-Connected: Thika is a transport hub with highways connecting it to Garissa, the central highlands, and a railway line. There are also plans for a passenger light rail to Nairobi.
• Good Road Network: Internally, Thika has a well-maintained road network.

Amenities and Lifestyle:

• Growing Infrastructure: Thika’s infrastructure is developing, with projects underway to improve water, roads, and other essential services as it aims for city status.
• Educational Hub: The town is home to several universities, colleges, and reputable schools like Braeburn Imani International School and Thika Road Academy.
• Shopping Options: Residents have access to malls like Ananas Mall and local markets for daily needs.  
• Recreational Activities:
  • Enjoy natural attractions like Chania Falls and Fourteen Falls.  
  • The town is close to Ol Donyo Sabuk National Park.  
  • There are opportunities for golfing at Thika Golf Club and social activities at places like the Blue Post Hotel.  
• Family-Friendly Environment: Thika offers a suburban charm with parks and playgrounds, making it suitable for families.  
• Community Feel: Many estates, especially gated communities, foster a strong sense of community.  
• Industrial and Commercial Hub: Thika is a significant industrial and commercial center, offering various employment and business opportunities.  

Future Potential:

• Becoming a City: Thika is on its way to becoming an Industrial Smart City, which is expected to bring further development, infrastructure improvements, and job creation.  
• Increased Property Values: The increasing demand for homes in Thika suggests a positive outlook for property value appreciation.

However, it’s worth considering potential drawbacks:

• Traffic Congestion: The Thika Superhighway can experience traffic during peak hours.
• Limited High-End Amenities: While developing, Thika might have fewer high-end amenities compared to Nairobi.
• Potential for Overcrowding: Rapid population growth can sometimes strain essential services.

In conclusion, living in Thika can be attractive for those seeking a more affordable lifestyle with good connectivity to Nairobi, a growing range of amenities, and a family-friendly environment. The town’s ongoing development and its journey towards city status suggest a promising future for its residents.