Zimmerman Estate, Nairobi: Rentals, Location & Lifestyle

The Zimmerman Estate is in northern Nairobi, along the Thika Superhighway, between Roysambu and Githurai. Main roads serving the estate include Mirema Drive and Kamiti Road, with links to Kahawa West. The estate comprises numerous residential blocks, both old and newly constructed. Living in Zimmerman is generally considered positive due to strong security, proximity to the CBD, and abundance of amenities.

Quick Facts

Location: Zimmerman is situated off the Thika Superhighway, neighbouring Roysambu, Githurai 44/45, Kahawa West, and Kasarani.
Distance to Nairobi CBD: This typically takes between 10 and 30 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.
Vibe: The area boasts a diverse mix of apartments, numerous shops, and small businesses, fostering a lively atmosphere that remains vibrant around the clock.
Who it suits: Most tenants are university and college students, young professionals, and small families.
Property types: Bedsitters, a few single rooms, one- to three-bedroom apartments, and some maisonettes.

Nearby Estates & Landmarks

Thika Road Mall (TRM) is located along Thika Road. Matatus pass TRM when heading to Zimmerman.
Githurai 44/45 is a major market center for vegetables, clothes, and other types of food.
Kahawa West is located past Zimmerman and is home to public hospitals and the well-known Kamiti Maximum Prison.
Kasarani Stadium is a major sports facility in Kasarani, a few kilometres from Zimmerman Estate.

Housing & Average Prices

The Zimmerman Estate comprises many rental apartments, with prices varying based on apartment size, building age, interior finishes, and proximity to major roads.

Typical Monthly Rents

A few single rooms are available, with rents ranging from Ksh 4,000 to Ksh 5,000.
Bedsitters, typically compact and suitable for students, cost Ksh 6,000 to Ksh 9,000. Larger units are priced higher.
1 Bedroom: Prices range from Ksh 10,000 to Ksh 18,000. Apartments located near the Co-operative Bank and Khetias Supermarket often have higher rents due to their closeness to the main road and TRM.
2 Bedrooms: Spacious, well-built units rent from Ksh 18,000 to Ksh 30,000 per month.
3-Bedroom Apartments: Rents range from Ksh 28,000 to Ksh 45,000. Apartments located farther from the main road may have lower rents.

Sale Prices

1-Bed/Studio apartment (resale): KSh 2.2M – 4.2M
2-Bed apartment: KSh 4.5M – 7.5M
3-Bed apartment: KSh 6.5M – 10.5M
Townhouse/Maisonette (nearby areas): KSh 15M – 30M+ (depending on the estate and finish).

Extra Costs to Expect

Agreement fees when acquiring a room usually range from Ksh 2,000 to Ksh 3,000.
Water fees are paid once, on the first payment, at Ksh 2,000.
Internet: Fibre options for Safaricom and Zuku range from Ksh 1,500 to Ksh 3,500.

Best Places to Live in Zimmerman

Rentals near TRM, Roysambu, and along Kamiti Road command higher rents due to proximity to main roads and convenient transport. Properties farther away tend to be more affordable.

Near TRM and Roysambu: The area features new apartments that offer easy access to matatus.
Behind Khetias Supermarket and Co-operative Bank, the apartments are well-finished, well-managed, and clean.
Apartments near Deliverance Church are built on elevated ground, which prevents flooding. These apartments are generally well-maintained and recently constructed.
Canopy Zimmerman: Rentals along the road leading to Githurai 44 are slightly cheaper, with good finishing.
Car Wash Zimmerman: This area is considered secure due to the nearby Zimmerman Police Post. Apartments here are newer and more affordable compared to those near TRM and Roysambu.

Note: Survey the area during the day and at night, and during the rainy season, to identify flood-prone areas before renting.

Schools & Learning

Zimmerman hosts many educational institutions, from junior schools to colleges and universities in the surrounding area.

Pre-primary & Primary: Several primary schools within the estate, with public options in Kahawa West and Kasarani. Good examples include Sports View Academy, Royalhill School, and Cornerstone Academy.
Secondary: Several day schools in Zimmerman and Kasarani, with other options in Roysambu.
Colleges & Universities nearby: PAC in Roysambu, USIU off Thika Road, KU along Thika Road, Zetech in Ruiru, and KCA along Thika Road near Allsoaps.

Note for Parents: Visit schools around to choose one that is suitable for your budget and meets your child’s needs.

Safety & Security

Overall, Nairobi’s safety varies; personal vigilance is essential. While Zimmerman generally has good security, it is always best to stay alert.

• Walk only in well-lit areas.
• Avoid using your phone while walking in crowded places.
• Choose apartments with security guards and CCTV systems.

Zimmerman benefits from street lighting in most areas and proximity to police posts, including Zimmerman Police Post and Kasarani Police Station.