Roysambu Estate Nairobi: Location, Rent & Amenities

Roysambu is one of the vibrant estates in Nairobi. Many university and college students, young professionals, and growing families live in the area, which offers a mixture of lifestyle convenience, accessibility, and affordability.

Roysambu is just a few kilometers from the Nairobi Central Business District (CBD), and many residents find it appealing. The population continues to grow over time. This article explores everything you need to know about Roysambu Estate, from rent to amenities to lifestyle.

Quick Facts About Roysambu

• Located along Lumumba Drive, accessible to the CBD via Thika Road
• Approximately 11.5 km from the CBD
• Most residents are young professionals and students, particularly from universities such as PAC, USIU, Kenyatta, and KCA
• The main landmark is Thika Road Mall (TRM)
• The most common form of public transportation is the matatu, operated by Zuri Sacco. It reaches Odeon in the Nairobi CBD, and the fare ranges from Ksh 60 to Ksh 80

Location and Accessibility

Roysambu is located along the Thika Superhighway. An alternative access route is through Kasarani–Mwiki Road. The neighboring estates include Zimmerman and Kasarani.

Housing in Roysambu Estate

Houses in Roysambu are mostly one-bedroom units, but there are also bedsitters, which are mainly occupied by students and singles. The area also has several Airbnbs for visitors who frequent entertainment joints and need accommodation along Lumumba Drive.

Types of Houses and Their Rent Ranges

• Bedsitters, ideal for students and singles, rent for Ksh 8,000–10,000 per month
• One-bedroom apartments, popular among young couples and professionals, range from Ksh 14,000 to Ksh 20,000 monthly
• Two-bedroom apartments, mostly for small families, range from Ksh 20,000 to Ksh 30,000 monthly
• Three-bedroom apartments, ideal for larger families, range from Ksh 32,000 to 45,000 monthly

Monthly rent charges vary depending on proximity to TRM, apartment furnishing, and age.

Cost of Living in Roysambu

Roysambu offers an affordable lifestyle compared to other estates such as Kilimani, Kileleshwa, and Runda.

A rough budget of Ksh 40,000 per month is sufficient to live in Roysambu. With rent costing around Ksh 16,000 and covering bills such as Wi-Fi, transport, electricity, food, and water, this budget can work well for students and tenants sharing accommodation.

Lifestyle and Amenities

Shopping & Markets

• Thika Road Mall (TRM) — features major banks, gyms, supermarkets, clothing shops, electronics stores, restaurants, and entertainment options
• Supermarkets — nearby options include Quickmart, Khetis, and other retail shops

Health Facilities

• Several private hospitals and clinics
• Roysambu Hospital
• A public hospital at Kasarani, near the neighborhood

Recreational Centres

• Flash Gym along Lumumba Drive
• Easy Fit Gym along Lumumba Drive

Entertainment

There are several entertainment joints along Mirema Drive and Lumumba Drive, including:

• Tessara Bistro Lounge
• Paris Lounge
• Alfakher Lounge
• Iced Mint Lounge along USIU Road at Safari Business Arcade

Education

There are many universities near Roysambu, including:

• United States International University-Africa (USIU)
• KCA University
• Kenyatta University (KU)
• Pan African University (PAC)

This makes Roysambu very attractive to students.

Dining

Roysambu has many food joints, with delivery options available through Bolt Food. There are also local nyama choma joints and fast food outlets such as KFC and Chicken Inn at TRM.

Security in Roysambu

General security in Roysambu is good. Apartments near TRM are generally safe, with gates and CCTV surveillance, while other areas may experience occasional petty theft.

Safety tips:

• Rent apartments with perimeter walls
• Avoid poorly lit areas at night
• Use Uber or Bolt at night instead of walking

Advantages of Living in Roysambu Estate

• Affordable rent compared to estates like Kileleshwa and Kilimani
• Easy access via Thika Superhighway
• Surrounded by major universities, making it ideal for students
• Lively lifestyle with restaurants, entertainment, and markets

Disadvantages of Living in Roysambu

• Traffic congestion during peak hours, especially for commuters to the Nairobi CBD
• Noise from entertainment joints near residential areas
• Rent may be high for some university students

House-Hunting Tips for Roysambu

• Always visit the house in person before making payments
• Research rent prices online or from locals before moving in
• Choose an apartment near the main road for security and convenience
• Students should consider sharing rent to reduce costs

Moving to Roysambu: Steps to Follow

• Research and decide your budget and house type
• Visit the apartment to inspect water, security, and accessibility
• Arrange a moving company or local transport
• Set up internet services such as Safaricom Fiber

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Is Roysambu affordable?
Yes. Bedsitters start from Ksh 8,000.

2. Is Roysambu safe?
Yes. Most apartments are gated, have CCTV, and security guards. Kasarani Police Station is also nearby.

3. Is Roysambu good for students?
Yes, due to its proximity to universities and affordable housing.

4. What are the main challenges in Roysambu?
Traffic congestion along Thika Road and noise from nearby entertainment areas.

5. Which is the best part of Roysambu to live in?
Areas near TRM and Lumumba Drive.

6. Are there Airbnbs in Roysambu?
Yes, there are several Airbnbs along Lumumba Drive with affordable rates and different room sizes.