SantiagovsNairobi
Overall
đź’°-18.2%
Santiago is 18.2%cheaper
Rent
đźŹ-28.6%
Housing is 28.6% lower
Dining
🍽️-20.0%
Restaurants 20.0% cheaper
Groceries
đź›’-12.7%
Food shopping 12.7% less
Comparing the cost of living between Santiago, Chile and Nairobi, Kenya reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2025. Our comprehensive analysis shows that Santiago is more affordable than Nairobi by approximately 18.2%. This comparison covers essential living expenses including housing, food, transportation, and utilities, providing you with a complete picture of what to expect financially in each city.
Key Cost Differences
Housing costs in Santiago are higher than in Nairobi by 40%. A one-bedroom apartment in Santiago's city center costs around CLPÂ 500,000, while the same in Nairobi is approximately KESÂ 50,000.
Dining out in Santiago is notably more expensive compared to Nairobi. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs CLPÂ 7,000 in Santiago versus KESÂ 500 in Nairobi.
Public transportation in Santiago is more expensive, with monthly passes at CLPÂ 33,000 compared to KESÂ 4,000 in Nairobi.
Purchasing power in Santiago is notably stronger, meaning residents can afford more goods and services with their local salaries compared to Nairobi.
Grocery shopping in Santiago is more expensive by approximately 15%. Basic items like milk, bread, and eggs show higher prices across the board.
Monthly Budget Breakdown
When breaking down monthly expenses, a single person in Santiago can expect to spend approximately CLPÂ 286,600 per month (excluding rent), while in Nairobi, the same lifestyle would cost around KESÂ 29,480. For families, these figures increase significantly, with a family of four requiring about CLPÂ 1,003,100 monthly in Santiago versus KESÂ 103,180 in Nairobi. These estimates include groceries, dining out, transportation, utilities, and entertainment, providing a realistic picture of day-to-day living costs in each city.
Detailed Cost Comparison
🏠Housing Costs (Monthly Rent)
🍽️ Food & Dining
đź›’ Groceries
🚌 Transportation
đź’ˇ Utilities & Internet
Tips for Moving Between Cities
For those considering a move from Nairobi to Santiago, the cost savings can be substantial, particularly in housing and daily expenses. However, it's important to factor in salary differences and job opportunities. Conversely, moving from Santiago to Nairobi requires careful financial planning. Consider negotiating salary adjustments that reflect the higher cost of living, and research neighborhoods outside the city center for more affordable housing options while maintaining reasonable commute times.
Quality of Life Indices
Santiago
Nairobi
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Santiago more expensive than Nairobi?
No, Santiago is approximately 18.2% cheaper than Nairobi. You'll find significant savings in housing, food, and transportation costs.
How much salary do I need in Santiago compared to Nairobi?
To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 85% of your Nairobi salary when living in Santiago. For example, if you earn $50,000 in Nairobi, you'd need about $42,308 in Santiago for a comparable lifestyle.
What are the biggest cost differences between Santiago and Nairobi?
The most significant cost difference is in housing. Rent prices differ by approximately 40%, making it a major factor in your budget planning. Transportation and utilities show notable variations between the two cities.
Which city is better for expats and digital nomads?
Santiago offers better purchasing power, making it more attractive for those earning in strong currencies. However, Santiago provides lower living costs, which benefits budget-conscious travelers. Consider Santiago if you prioritize earning potential, or Nairobi for affordability.
What's a reasonable monthly budget for Santiago vs Nairobi?
In Santiago, a single person needs approximately CLPÂ 636,600 per month (including rent), while a family of four requires about CLPÂ 1,653,100. In Nairobi, these figures are KESÂ 54,480 for singles and KESÂ 173,180 for families. These estimates include housing, food, transportation, and basic entertainment.
The cost of living comparison between Santiago and Nairobi in 2025 shows notable differences across various expense categories. Whether you're planning a relocation for work, considering retirement options, or simply curious about living costs, understanding these differences is crucial for making informed financial decisions.
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Find out how much you need to earn in Nairobi to maintain your lifestyle from Santiago
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