Kenya: Population, Economy & Travel Facts

Essential data for planning your trip to Kenya — from population and demographics to economic indicators, healthcare infrastructure, tourism trends, and digital connectivity.

Population & Geography

Population
51,393,010
#28 of 197 countries
Area
580,367 km²
#50 of 248 countries
Density
88.6 / km²
#122 of 245 countries

Kenya has a population of 51,393,010 spread across 580,367 km², giving it an average density of 88.6 people per km².

Most Populous Cities

Nairobi
4,397,073
5947 / km²
Kakamega
1,867,579
5888 / km²
Mombasa
1,208,333
2720 / km²
Nakuru
570,674
24247 / km²
Ruiru
490,120
4995 / km²
Eldoret
475,716
10014 / km²
Kisumu
397,957
3690 / km²
Kikuyu, Kenya
323,881
3143 / km²
Thika
251,407
2157 / km²
Naivasha
198,444
8782 / km²

Demographics

Median Age
21.5
Life Expectancy
70.4 yrs
Government
presidential republic
Ethnic Groups
Religions
GDP by Sector

Economy & Cost of Living

Understanding the local economy helps travellers budget effectively and set expectations. Kenya is classified as a lower middle income country by the World Bank. Prices are roughly 31% of US levels, meaning your money goes significantly further here — accommodation, food, and transport are very affordable by Western standards.

Income Level
Lower middle income
GDP per Capita
$1,943
Cost of Living
31% of US
Inflation
7.7%
Inequality
38.7
Moderate